JP2023544040A - Aerosol generating article with front end plug - Google Patents

Abstract

The aerosol-generating article includes an aerosol-generating substrate (12) and a downstream section (14) extending from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate to the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generating article further comprises an upstream section (40) extending from the upstream end of the aerosol generating substrate to the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. The ratio of the upstream section withdrawal resistance to the downstream section withdrawal resistance is greater than 1, and the upstream section withdrawal resistance is less than or equal to 150 mmH2O. [Selection diagram] Figure 1

Description

The present invention relates to an aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate and adapted to generate an inhalable aerosol upon heating.

Aerosol-generating articles in which an aerosol-generating substrate, such as a tobacco-containing substrate, is heated rather than combusted are known in the art. Typically, in such heated smoking articles, an aerosol is generated by transferring heat from a heat source to a physically separated aerosol-generating substrate or material that is in contact with the heat source. , or within, around, or downstream of the heat source. During use of the aerosol-generating article, volatile compounds are released from the aerosol-generating substrate by heat transfer from a heat source and entrained into the air drawn through the aerosol-generating article. When the released compounds cool, they condense to form an aerosol.

Numerous prior art documents disclose aerosol generating devices for consuming aerosol generating articles. Such devices include, for example, electrically heated aerosol generating devices in which the aerosol is generated by heat transfer from one or more electric heater elements of the aerosol generating device to an aerosol generating substrate of a heated aerosol generating article. For example, electrically heated aerosol generation devices have been proposed that include internal heater blades adapted to be inserted into an aerosol generation substrate. Alternatively, an inductively exothermic aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate and a susceptor disposed within the aerosol-generating substrate is proposed by WO2015/176898. Another alternative is described in WO 2020/115151, which describes one or more aerosol generators used in combination with an external heating system comprising one or more heating elements arranged around the outer surface of the aerosol-generating article. Disclose generated items.

Aerosol-generating articles in which the tobacco-containing substrate is heated rather than combusted present several challenges not encountered with conventional smoking articles. First, the tobacco-containing substrate is typically heated to significantly lower temperatures compared to the temperatures reached by the combustion front of conventional tobacco. This can affect nicotine release from the tobacco-containing substrate and nicotine delivery to the consumer. At the same time, when heating temperatures are increased in an attempt to enhance nicotine delivery, the aerosol produced typically needs to be cooled more extensively and more quickly before reaching the consumer. However, technological solutions commonly used to cool mainstream smoke in conventional smoking articles, such as providing a high filtration efficiency segment at the mouth end of the cigarette, reduce nicotine delivery in tobacco-containing substrates. This can have undesirable effects in aerosol-generating articles that are heated rather than burned.

A number of aerosol-generating articles have been proposed to address one or more of the challenges particularly associated with heating, rather than burning, an aerosol-generating substrate to generate an aerosol, and where multiple elements are involved, e.g. It is assembled in longitudinal alignment with an aerosol-generating element comprising an aerosol-generating substrate. By way of example, the aerosol generating element is combined with a support element that provides improved structural strength to the article, an aerosol cooling element configured to reduce the temperature of the aerosol, a low filtration mouthpiece element, etc.

There is a general need for aerosol-generating articles that are easier to use, more practical, and more environmentally friendly. Furthermore, it would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating article that is easier to manufacture and makes the entire production chain more sustainable and cost-effective. There is also a need for aerosol-generating articles that are particularly suitable for use in conjunction with external heating systems, particularly aerosol-generating articles that have improved aerosol generation and aerosol former delivery.

Accordingly, it would be desirable to provide new and improved aerosol generating articles configured to meet at least one of the above needs. Additionally, it would be desirable to provide an aerosol-generating article that can be manufactured efficiently and quickly, and preferably with sufficiently low RTD variation from product to product.

The present disclosure relates to an aerosol-generating article for producing an inhalable aerosol upon heating. The aerosol generating article may include an aerosol generating substrate. The aerosol-generating article may include a downstream section extending from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate to the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The aerosol generating article may include an upstream section extending from the upstream end of the aerosol generating substrate to the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. The ratio of the withdrawal resistance of the upstream section to the withdrawal resistance of the downstream section may be greater than 1.

According to the present invention, an aerosol-generating article for producing an inhalable aerosol upon heating is provided, the aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate, extending from a downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate to a downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. a downstream section, and an upstream section extending from the upstream end of the aerosol generating substrate to the upstream end of the aerosol generating article. The ratio of the withdrawal resistance of the upstream section to the withdrawal resistance of the downstream section is greater than 1.

In embodiments of the invention, the RTD of the upstream section is higher than the RTD of the downstream section. If the downstream section has a relatively low RTD, e.g. an RTD of less than about 10 mm _H2O , it is advantageous to provide an upstream element with a relatively high RTD, such as a high RTD element, such as a filter downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate. can provide an acceptable overall RTD without the need for This may maximize delivery of aerosol to the user without unacceptably lowering the overall RTD of the aerosol-generating article. In use, air enters the aerosol-generating article through the upstream end of the upstream section, passes through the upstream section, and into the aerosol-generating substrate. The air then enters and passes through the downstream section and then exits from the downstream end of the downstream section.

The RTD of the upstream section may account for the majority of the RTD of the entire aerosol generating article.

According to the present invention, an aerosol-generating article for generating an inhalable aerosol upon heating is provided. The aerosol-generating article includes an element that includes an aerosol-generating substrate.

As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating article" refers to an article that heats an aerosol-generating substrate to produce an inhalable aerosol for delivery to a consumer. As used herein, the term "aerosol-generating substrate" refers to a substrate that has the ability to generate an aerosol by releasing volatile compounds upon heating.

Traditional cigarettes are lit when a user applies a flame to one end of the cigarette and draws air through the other end. The localized heat provided by the flame and the oxygen in the air drawn through the cigarette ignites the end of the cigarette and the resulting combustion produces inhalable smoke. In contrast, in heated aerosol-generating articles, the aerosol is generated by heating a flavor-generating substrate (such as tobacco). Known heated aerosol generating articles include, for example, electrically heated aerosol generating articles and aerosol generating articles in which an aerosol is generated by heat transfer from a combustible fuel element or heat source to a physically separated aerosol forming material. Can be mentioned. For example, an aerosol-generating article according to the invention has particular application in an aerosol-generating system comprising an electrically heated aerosol-generating device having an internal heater blade adapted to be inserted into a rod of an aerosol-generating substrate. . Aerosol-generating articles of this type are described in the prior art, for example in EP0822670.

As used herein, the term "aerosol generating device" refers to a device that includes a heater element that interacts with an aerosol generating substrate of an aerosol generating article to generate an aerosol.

The aerosol generating element may be in the form of a rod comprising or made of an aerosol generating substrate. The term "rod" as used herein in connection with the present invention is used to denote a generally cylindrical element of substantially circular, oval or elliptical cross section.

As used herein, the term "longitudinal" refers to a direction corresponding to the main longitudinal axis of the aerosol-generating article, extending between the upstream and downstream ends of the aerosol-generating article. The terms "upstream" and "downstream" as used herein describe the relative position of an element (or portion of an element) of an aerosol-generating article with respect to the direction in which aerosol is conveyed through the aerosol-generating article during use. do.

During use, air is drawn longitudinally through the aerosol generating article. The term "transverse" refers to a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Any reference to a "cross-section" of an aerosol-generating article or a component of an aerosol-generating article refers to a cross-section, unless otherwise specified.

The term "length" refers to the dimension of a component of an aerosol generating article in the longitudinal direction. For example, it may be used to mean the dimension of a rod or elongated tubular element in the longitudinal direction.

The aerosol generating article further comprises a downstream section at a location downstream of the aerosol generating substrate. As will become apparent from the following description of different embodiments of the aerosol generating article of the present invention, the downstream section may include one or more downstream elements.

In some embodiments, the downstream section can include a hollow section between the mouth end of the aerosol-generating article and the aerosol-generating element. The hollow section may comprise a hollow tubular element.

As used herein, the term "hollow tubular element" refers to a generally elongate element that defines a cavity or airflow passageway along its longitudinal axis. In particular, the term "tubular" hereinafter refers to at least one air flow having a substantially cylindrical cross-section and establishing uninterrupted fluid communication between the upstream end of the tubular element and the downstream end of the tubular element. Used in connection with tubular elements that define conduits. However, it will be appreciated that alternative shapes of the tubular element (eg, alternative cross-sectional shapes) may be possible.

In the context of the present invention, hollow tubular elements provide an unrestricted flow path. This means that the hollow tubular element provides a negligible level of resistance to withdrawal (RTD). The term "negligible RTD" means an RTD of less than 1 mm H2O per 10 mm of length of a hollow tubular element, _preferably less than 0.4 _mm H2O per 10 mm of length of a hollow tubular element, more preferably a hollow is used to express an RTD of less than 0.1 mm H ₂ O per 10 mm of length of the tubular element.

Therefore, the flow channels should not include any components that would obstruct longitudinal air flow. Preferably the flow channel is substantially empty.

The aerosol generating article may include a first ventilation zone at a location along the downstream section. More particularly, the aerosol generating article may include a first ventilation zone located along the hollow tubular element. In this way, fluid communication is established between the flow path defined therein by the hollow tubular element and the external environment.

The aerosol generating article further comprises an upstream section at a location upstream of the rod of the aerosol generating substrate. The upstream section may include one or more upstream elements. In some embodiments, the upstream section can include an upstream element positioned immediately upstream of the aerosol generating element.

As briefly described above, an aerosol-generating article according to the present invention comprises an aerosol-generating substrate.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating element can be provided in the form of a rod that includes an aerosol-generating substrate. As an example, the aerosol generating element may comprise a rod of aerosol generating substrate surrounded by a wrapper.

The aerosol generating substrate can have a length of at least about 5 millimeters. Preferably, the aerosol generating substrate has a length of at least about 7 millimeters. More preferably, the aerosol generating substrate has a length of at least about 10 millimeters. In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating substrate has a length of at least about 12 millimeters.

The aerosol generating substrate can have a length of up to about 80 millimeters. Preferably, the aerosol generating substrate has a length of about 65 millimeters or less. More preferably, the aerosol generating substrate has a length of about 60 millimeters or less. Even more preferably, the aerosol generating substrate has a length of about 55 millimeters or less.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating substrate has a length of about 50 millimeters or less, more preferably about 35 millimeters or less, and even more preferably about 25 millimeters or less. In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating substrate has a length of about 20 millimeters or less, or about 15 millimeters or less.

In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate has a length of about 5 mm to about 60 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 60 mm, more preferably about 7 mm to about 60 mm, and more preferably about 10 mm. Even more preferred is from about 60 millimeters, and most preferred is from about 12 millimeters to about 60 millimeters. In another embodiment, the aerosol-generating substrate has a length from about 5 mm to about 55 mm, preferably from about 6 mm to about 55 mm, more preferably from about 7 mm to about 55 mm, and from about 10 mm to about 55 mm. Even more preferred is about 55 millimeters, and most preferred is from about 12 millimeters to about 55 millimeters. In another embodiment, the aerosol-generating substrate has a length of about 5 millimeters to about 50 millimeters, preferably about 6 millimeters to about 50 millimeters, more preferably about 7 millimeters to about 50 millimeters, and about 10 millimeters to about 50 millimeters. Even more preferably about 50 millimeters, and most preferably from about 12 millimeters to about 50 millimeters.

In some particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate has a length of about 5 millimeters to about 30 millimeters, preferably about 6 millimeters to about 30 millimeters, more preferably about 7 millimeters to about 30 millimeters, and about Even more preferred is from 10 millimeters to about 30 millimeters. In another particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating substrate has a length of about 5 mm to about 20 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 20 mm, more preferably about 7 mm to about 20 mm, and more preferably about 10 mm to about 20 mm. Even more preferred are millimeters to about 20 millimeters. In another particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol generating substrate has a length of about 5 millimeters to about 15 millimeters, preferably about 7 millimeters to about 20 millimeters, more preferably about 9 millimeters to about 16 millimeters, and more preferably about 10 millimeters to about 10 millimeters. Even more preferred are millimeters to about 15 millimeters.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating substrate has an outer diameter approximately equal to the outer diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

Preferably, the aerosol generating substrate has an outer diameter of at least about 3 millimeters, at least about 4 millimeters or at least about 5 millimeters. More preferably, the aerosol generating substrate has an outer diameter of at least about 6 millimeters. Even more preferably, the aerosol generating substrate has an outer diameter of at least about 7 millimeters.

Preferably, the aerosol generating substrate has an outer diameter of about 12 millimeters or less. More preferably, the aerosol generating substrate has an outer diameter of about 10 millimeters or less. Even more preferably, the aerosol generating substrate has an outer diameter of about 8 millimeters or less.

Generally, the smaller the diameter of the aerosol-generating substrate, the lower the temperature required to raise the core temperature of the aerosol-generating element and ensure that a sufficient amount of vaporized species is released from the aerosol-generating substrate to produce the desired amount. Forms an aerosol. At the same time, without intending to be bound by theory, a smaller diameter of the aerosol-generating substrate allows the heat supplied to the aerosol-generating article to penetrate faster into the entire volume of the aerosol-forming substrate. That is understood. Nevertheless, if the diameter of the aerosol-generating substrate is too small, the volume to surface area ratio of the aerosol-generating substrate becomes unfavorable as the amount of available aerosol-forming substrate decreases.

Aerosol-generating substrate diameters falling within the ranges described herein are particularly advantageous in terms of the balance between energy consumption and aerosol delivery. This advantage is particularly realized when an aerosol generating article comprising an aerosol generating substrate having a diameter as described herein is used in combination with an external heater positioned around the periphery of the aerosol generating article. Under such operating conditions, it has been observed that less thermal energy is required to achieve a sufficiently high temperature at the core of the aerosol-generating substrate, and generally at the core of the article. Thereby, when operating at lower temperatures, the desired target temperature in the core of the aerosol-generating substrate can be achieved within a desirably shortened time frame and with lower energy consumption.

In some embodiments, the rod of the aerosol generating substrate has an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 12 mm, more preferably about 7 mm to about 12 mm. In other embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate has an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 10 mm, more preferably about 7 mm to about 10 mm. In further embodiments, the aerosol generating substrate has an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 8 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 8 mm, more preferably about 7 mm to about 8 mm.

The aerosol generating substrate may have an outer diameter of 3.7 mm to 9 mm, or 5.7 mm to 7.9 mm.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating substrate has an outer diameter of less than about 7.5 millimeters. As an example, the aerosol generating substrate may have an outer diameter of about 7.2 millimeters.

The length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element can be at least about 0.5. Preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is at least about 0.75. More preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is at least about 1.0. Even more preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is at least about 1.25.

The length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element can be about 3.0 or less. Preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is about 2.75 or less. More preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is about 2.5 or less. Even more preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is about 2.25 or less.

In some embodiments, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element can be from about 0.5 to about 3.0. Preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is from about 0.75 to about 3.0. More preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is from about 1.0 to about 3.0. Even more preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is from about 1.25 to about 3.0.

In another embodiment, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element can be from about 0.5 to about 2.75. Preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is from about 0.75 to about 2.75. More preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is from about 1.0 to about 2.75. Even more preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is from about 1.25 to about 2.75.

In another embodiment, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element can be from about 0.5 to about 2.5. Preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is from about 0.75 to about 2.5. More preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is from about 1.0 to about 2.5. Even more preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is from about 1.25 to about 2.5.

In yet another embodiment, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element can be from about 0.5 to about 2.25. Preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is from about 0.75 to about 2.25. More preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is from about 1.0 to about 2.25. Even more preferably, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is from about 1.25 to about 2.25.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element can be at least about 1.3, more preferably about 1.4, and even more preferably about 1.5.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element can be about 2.0 or less, more preferably about 1.9 or less, and even more preferably about 1.8 or less.

In some embodiments, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is preferably from about 1.3 to about 2.0, more preferably from about 1.4 to about 2.0, and more preferably from about 1.3 to about 2.0. 5 to about 2.0 is even more preferred. In another embodiment, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is preferably from about 1.3 to about 1.9, more preferably from about 1.4 to about 1.7, and more preferably from about 1.5 to about 1.9 is even more preferred. In another embodiment, the length to diameter ratio of the aerosol generating element is preferably from about 1.3 to about 1.8, more preferably from about 1.4 to about 1.8, and more preferably from about 1.5 to about 1.8 is even more preferred.

The ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the overall length of the aerosol generating article can be at least about 0.10. Preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the overall length of the aerosol generating article is at least about 0.15. More preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the overall length of the aerosol generating article is at least about 0.20. Even more preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the overall length of the aerosol generating article is at least about 0.25.

Typically, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the overall length of the aerosol generating article can be about 0.60 or less. Preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the overall length of the aerosol generating article is about 0.50 or less. More preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the total length of the aerosol generating article is about 0.45 or less. Even more preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the overall length of the aerosol generating article is about 0.40 or less. In particularly preferred embodiments, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the overall length of the aerosol generating article is about 0.35 or less, most preferably about 0.30 or less.

In some embodiments, the ratio of the length of the aerosol-generating element to the total length of the aerosol-generating article is about 0.10 to about 0.45, preferably about 0.15 to about 0.45, and about 0.15 to about 0.45, preferably about 0.15 to about 0.45. More preferably from 20 to about 0.45, and even more preferably from about 0.25 to about 0.45. In another embodiment, the ratio of the length of the aerosol-generating element to the total length of the aerosol-generating article is about 0.10 to about 0.40, preferably about 0.15 to about 0.40, and about 0.20. More preferably, from about 0.40 to about 0.40, and even more preferably from about 0.25 to about 0.40. In another embodiment, the ratio of the length of the aerosol-generating element to the total length of the aerosol-generating article is about 0.10 to about 0.35, preferably about 0.15 to about 0.35, and about 0.20. More preferably, from about 0.35 to about 0.35, and even more preferably from about 0.25 to about 0.35. In yet another embodiment, the ratio of the length of the aerosol-generating element to the overall length of the aerosol-generating article is about 0.10 to about 0.30, preferably about 0.15 to about 0.30, and about 0.10 to about 0.30. More preferably from 20 to about 0.30, and even more preferably from about 0.25 to about 0.30.

Preferably, the aerosol-generating element comprises a rod of aerosol-generating substrate having a substantially uniform cross-section along the length of the rod. It is particularly preferred that the rod of the aerosol-generating substrate has a substantially circular cross-section.

As explained in more detail below, an aerosol-generating article according to the invention comprises a downstream section comprising a hollow tubular element. In an aerosol generating article according to the present invention, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element can be about 0.66 or less. Preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element may be about 0.60 or less. More preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element may be about 0.50 or less. Even more preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element may be about 0.40 or less.

In an aerosol generating article according to the present invention, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element can be at least about 0.10. Preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element may be at least about 0.15. More preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element may be at least about 0.20. Even more preferably, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element may be at least about 0.25. In particularly preferred embodiments, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element may be at least about 0.30.

In some embodiments, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element is about 0.15 to about 0.60, preferably about 0.20 to about 0.60, and about 0. More preferably, from .25 to about 0.60, and even more preferably from about 0.30 to about 0.60. In another embodiment, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element is about 0.15 to about 0.50, preferably about 0.20 to about 0.50, and about 0.50. More preferably from 25 to about 0.50, and even more preferably from about 0.30 to about 0.50. In another embodiment, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element is about 0.15 to about 0.40, preferably about 0.20 to about 0.40, and about 0.20 to about 0.40. More preferably, from 25 to about 0.40, and even more preferably from about 0.30 to about 0.40. As an example, the ratio of the length of the aerosol generating element to the length of the hollow tubular element can be about 0.35.

The density of the aerosol-generating substrate can be at least about 100 micrograms per cubic centimeter. Preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is at least about 115 micrograms per cubic centimeter. More preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is at least about 130 micrograms per cubic centimeter. Even more preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is at least about 140 micrograms per cubic centimeter.

The density of the aerosol-generating substrate can be about 200 micrograms per cubic centimeter or less. Preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than or equal to about 185 micrograms per cubic centimeter. More preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than or equal to about 170 micrograms per cubic centimeter. Even more preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than or equal to about 160 micrograms per cubic centimeter.

In some embodiments, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is between 100 micrograms per cubic centimeter and 200 micrograms per cubic centimeter, preferably between 100 micrograms per cubic centimeter and 185 micrograms per cubic centimeter, and between 100 micrograms per cubic centimeter and 170 micrograms per cubic centimeter. Grams per cubic centimeter are more preferred, and 100 micrograms per cubic centimeter to 160 micrograms per cubic centimeter are even more preferred. In another embodiment, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is between 115 micrograms per cubic centimeter and 200 micrograms per cubic centimeter, preferably between 115 micrograms per cubic centimeter and 185 micrograms per cubic centimeter, and between 115 micrograms per cubic centimeter and 170 micrograms per cubic centimeter. /cubic centimeter is more preferred, and 115 micrograms/cubic centimeter to 160 micrograms/cubic centimeter is even more preferred. In another embodiment, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is between 130 micrograms per cubic centimeter and 200 micrograms per cubic centimeter, preferably between 130 micrograms per cubic centimeter and 185 micrograms per cubic centimeter, and between 130 micrograms per cubic centimeter and 170 micrograms per cubic centimeter. /cubic centimeter is more preferred, and 130 micrograms/cubic centimeter to 160 micrograms/cubic centimeter is even more preferred. In yet another embodiment, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is between 140 micrograms per cubic centimeter and 200 micrograms per cubic centimeter, preferably between 140 micrograms per cubic centimeter and 185 micrograms per cubic centimeter, and between 140 micrograms per cubic centimeter and 170 micrograms per cubic centimeter. Grams/cubic centimeter is more preferred, and 140 micrograms/cubic centimeter to 160 micrograms/cubic centimeter is even more preferred. In some particularly preferred embodiments, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is about 150 micrograms per cubic centimeter.

The density of the aerosol-generating substrate can be at least about 100 milligrams per cubic centimeter. Preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is at least about 115 milligrams per cubic centimeter. More preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is at least about 130 milligrams per cubic centimeter. Even more preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is at least about 140 milligrams per cubic centimeter.

The density of the aerosol-generating substrate can be about 200 milligrams per cubic centimeter or less. Preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than or equal to about 185 milligrams per cubic centimeter. More preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than or equal to about 170 milligrams per cubic centimeter. Even more preferably, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is less than or equal to about 160 milligrams per cubic centimeter.

In some embodiments, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is between 100 milligrams per cubic centimeter and 200 milligrams per cubic centimeter, preferably between 100 milligrams per cubic centimeter and 185 milligrams per cubic centimeter, and more preferably between 100 milligrams per cubic centimeter and 170 milligrams per cubic centimeter. , 100 milligrams per cubic centimeter to 160 milligrams per cubic centimeter are even more preferred. In another embodiment, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is between 115 milligrams per cubic centimeter and 200 milligrams per cubic centimeter, preferably between 115 milligrams per cubic centimeter and 185 milligrams per cubic centimeter, and more preferably between 115 milligrams per cubic centimeter and 170 milligrams per cubic centimeter; Even more preferred are from 115 milligrams per cubic centimeter to 160 milligrams per cubic centimeter. In another embodiment, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is between 130 milligrams per cubic centimeter and 200 milligrams per cubic centimeter, preferably between 130 milligrams per cubic centimeter and 185 milligrams per cubic centimeter, and more preferably between 130 milligrams per cubic centimeter and 170 milligrams per cubic centimeter; Even more preferred are 130 milligrams per cubic centimeter to 160 milligrams per cubic centimeter. In yet another embodiment, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is between 140 milligrams per cubic centimeter and 200 milligrams per cubic centimeter, preferably between 140 milligrams per cubic centimeter and 185 milligrams per cubic centimeter, and more preferably between 140 milligrams per cubic centimeter and 170 milligrams per cubic centimeter. , 140 milligrams per cubic centimeter to 160 milligrams per cubic centimeter are even more preferred. In some particularly preferred embodiments, the density of the aerosol-generating substrate is 150 milligrams per cubic centimeter.

By way of example, an aerosol-generating element can include about 100 milligrams to about 250 milligrams of aerosol-generating substrate. In some embodiments, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 210 milligrams to about 230 milligrams of aerosol-generating substrate, with 215 milligrams to about 220 milligrams of aerosol-generating substrate being preferred. In another embodiment, the aerosol-generating element comprises from about 150 milligrams to about 180 milligrams of aerosol-generating substrate, with 160 milligrams to about 165 milligrams of aerosol-generating substrate being preferred.

The aerosol-generating substrate can be a solid aerosol-generating substrate.

In certain preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises homogenized plant material, preferably homogenized tobacco material.

As used herein, the term "homogenized plant material" encompasses any plant material formed by agglomeration of plant particles. For example, sheets or webs of homogenized tobacco material for the aerosol-generating substrates of the present invention are prepared by grinding or crushing the plant material and, optionally, one or more of the tobacco leaf lamina and the tobacco leaf stalk. , or by agglomerating particles of tobacco material obtained by comminution. Homogenized plant material may be produced by casting, extrusion, a papermaking process, or any other suitable process known in the art.

Homogenized plant material may be provided in any suitable form.

In some embodiments, the homogenized plant material can be in the form of one or more sheets. The term "sheet" as used herein in connection with the present invention describes a laminar element having a width and length substantially greater than its thickness.

The homogenized plant material can be in the form of multiple pellets or granules.

The homogenized plant material may be in the form of multiple strands, strips, or pieces. The term "strand" as used herein describes an elongated element of material having a length substantially greater than its width and thickness. The term "strand" is considered to include strips, fragments, and any other homogenized plant material having a similar morphology. Strands of homogenized plant material may be formed from sheets of homogenized plant material, for example by cutting or shredding, or by other methods, such as extrusion methods.

In some embodiments, the strands form in situ within the aerosol-generating substrate as a result of splitting or cracking of a sheet of homogenized plant material during formation of the aerosol-generating substrate, e.g., as a result of crimp. can be done. Strands of homogenized plant material within the aerosol-generating substrate may be separated from each other. Alternatively, each strand of homogenized plant material within the aerosol-generating substrate may be at least partially connected to adjacent strands along the length of the strand. For example, adjacent strands may be connected by one or more fibers. This can occur, for example, when strands are formed due to the splitting of a sheet of homogenized plant material during the production of the aerosol-generating substrate described above.

When the aerosol-generating substrate comprises homogenized plant material, the homogenized plant material may typically be provided in the form of one or more sheets. In particular, sheets of homogenized plant material can be produced by a casting process. Preferably, the sheet of homogenized plant material may be produced by a papermaking process.

In some preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate includes cut filler. Within the context of this specification, the term "cut filler" refers to one or more of chopped plant material, such as, in particular, leaf flakes, processed stems and veins, homogenized plant material. Used to describe a blend of tobacco plant material, including:

Cut fillers may also include other cut pieces, filler tobacco or casings.

Preferably, the cut filler comprises at least 25% plant leaf lamina, more preferably at least 50% plant leaf lamina, even more preferably at least 75% plant leaf lamina, most preferably at least 90% plant leaf lamina. . Preferably, the plant material is one of tobacco, mint, tea, and cloves. However, the invention is equally applicable to other plant materials that, when heated, have the ability to release substances that can then form an aerosol, as described in more detail below.

Preferably, the cut filler comprises tobacco plant material comprising lamina of one or more of bright tobacco, dark tobacco, aromatic tobacco, and filler tobacco. In the context of the present invention, the term "tobacco" refers to any plant member of the genus Nicotiana.

Bright tobacco is a tobacco with generally large, light-colored leaves. Throughout this specification, the term "bright tobacco" is used for full-cured tobacco. Examples of bright cigarettes include full cure tobacco from China, full cure Brazilian tobacco, full cure tobacco from the United States (such as Virginia tobacco), full cure tobacco from India, full cure tobacco from Tanzania, or full cure tobacco from other African sources. Can be mentioned. Bright tobacco is characterized by a high sugar to nitrogen ratio. From a sensory perspective, Bright tobacco is a type of tobacco with a spicy and lively sensation after curing. In the context of the present invention, bright tobacco has a reducing sugar content of about 2.5 percent to about 20 percent on a leaf dry weight basis and a total ammonia content of about 0.12 percent on a leaf dry weight basis. tobacco that is less than %. Reducing sugars include, for example, glucose or fructose. Total ammonia includes, for example, ammonia and ammonia salts.

Dark tobacco is tobacco that generally has large, dark-colored leaves. Throughout this specification, the term "dark tobacco" is used for air-cured tobacco. Additionally, dark tobacco may be fermented. Also included in this category are tobaccos used primarily for chewing tobacco, snuff, cigar tobacco, and pipe blending. Typically, these dark tobaccos are air-dried and may be fermented. From a sensory perspective, dark tobacco is a type of tobacco with a smoky, dark cigar-type sensation after drying. Dark tobacco is characterized by a low sugar to nitrogen ratio. Examples of dark tobaccos are Burley Malawi or other African Burley, Dark Cure Brazilian Garpao, Sun Cure or Air Cure Indonesia Kasturi. According to the present invention, dark tobacco is tobacco that has a reducing sugar content of less than about 5 percent, based on the dry weight of the leaves, and a total ammonia content of about 0.5 percent or less, based on the dry weight of the leaves.

Aromatic tobacco is tobacco that often has small, light-colored leaves. Throughout this specification, the term "aromatic tobacco" is used for other tobaccos that have a high aroma content, such as a high content of essential oils. From a sensory perspective, aromatic tobacco is a type of tobacco with a spicy and aromatic sensation after drying. Examples of aromatic tobaccos include Greek Orient, Orient Turkey, semi-orient tobacco but fire-cured, US Burley such as Perique, Rustica, US Burley or Maryland. Filler tobacco is not a specific tobacco type, but a tobacco type used primarily to complement other tobacco types that are used in blends and do not provide a specific characteristic aroma direction to the final product. including. Examples of filler tobacco are the stems, midribs, or petioles of other tobacco types. A specific example may be hot air flue dried lower petiole hot air flue dried stems from Brazil.

Cut fillers suitable for use in the present invention may generally be similar to cut fillers used in conventional smoking articles. The cut width of the cut filler is preferably 0.3 mm to 2.0 mm, and the cut width of the cut filler is more preferably 0.5 mm to 1.2 mm. is most preferably between 0.6 mm and 0.9 mm. The width of the cut can affect the distribution of heat within the aerosol generating element. Also, cut width can play a role in the withdrawal resistance of the article. Additionally, overall, the cut width can affect the density of the entire aerosol-generating substrate.

The strand length of the cut filler is a somewhat random value since the length of the strand depends on the overall size of the object from which the strand is cut. Nevertheless, longer strands can be cut by conditioning the material before cutting, for example by controlling the moisture content and overall fineness of the material. Preferably, the strands have a length of about 10 mm to about 40 mm, after which the strands are bundled to form the aerosol generating element. Obviously, if the strands are arranged longitudinally in an aerosol-generating element whose section has a longitudinal extension of less than 40 millimeters, the final aerosol-generating element is on average shorter than the initial strand length. A strand can be provided. The strand length of the cut filler is preferably such that about 20 percent to 60 percent of the strands extend along the entire length of the aerosol generating element. This prevents the strands from falling off easily from the aerosol generating element.

In preferred embodiments, the weight of the cut filler is between 80 milligrams and 400 milligrams, preferably between 150 milligrams and 250 milligrams, and more preferably between 170 milligrams and 220 milligrams. This amount of cut filler usually allows enough material for aerosol formation. Additionally, in view of the aforementioned constraints on diameter and size, this allows the aerosol-generating substrate to balance density of the aerosol-generating element between energy absorption, withdrawal resistance, and fluid passages within the aerosol-generating element containing plant material. becomes possible.

Preferably, the cut filler is immersed in the aerosol former. Immersion of the cut filler can be done by spraying or other suitable application method. Aerosol formers can be added to the blend during the preparation of the cut filler. For example, an aerosol former may be applied to the blend in a direct conditioning casing cylinder (DCCC). Conventional machinery can be used to add the aerosol former to the cut filler. The aerosol former can be any suitable known compound or mixture of compounds that promotes the formation of a dense and stable aerosol during use. The aerosol former may facilitate the aerosol to be substantially resistant to thermal decomposition at the temperatures typically encountered during use of the aerosol generating article. Suitable aerosol formers are, for example, polyhydric alcohols (such as triethylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol, propylene glycol and glycerin), esters of polyhydric alcohols (such as glycerol monoacetate, diacetate or triacetate). , aliphatic esters of monocarboxylic, dicarboxylic, or polycarboxylic acids, such as dimethyl dodecanedioate and dimethyl tetradecanedioate, and combinations thereof.

Preferably, the aerosol former contains one or more of glycerin and propylene glycol. The aerosol former may consist of glycerin or propylene glycol or a combination of glycerin and propylene glycol.

Preferably, the amount of aerosol former is from 6 weight percent to 20 weight percent based on the dry weight of the cut filler, and the amount of aerosol former is from 8 weight percent to 18 weight percent based on the dry weight of the cut filler. More preferably, the amount of aerosol former is from 10 weight percent to 15 weight percent based on the dry weight of the cut filler. When the aerosol former is added to the cut filler in the above amounts, the cut filler may become relatively sticky. This is because particles of cut filler tend to adhere to surrounding cut filler particles and surrounding surfaces (e.g., the inner surface of the wrapper surrounding the cut filler), which helps to hold the cut filler in place within the article. Useful to your advantage.

In some embodiments, the amount of aerosol former has a target value of about 13 weight percent based on the dry weight of the cut filler. The most efficient amount of aerosol former also depends on the cut filler and whether it contains plant lamina or homogenized plant material. For example, the type of cut filler, among other factors, will determine the extent to which the aerosol former can facilitate the release of substances from the cut filler.

For these reasons, the aerosol generating element containing the cut filler described above can efficiently generate a sufficient amount of aerosol at a relatively low temperature. Temperatures of 150°C to 200°C in the heating chamber are sufficient for such cut fillers to generate sufficient amounts of aerosol, but aerosol generators using tobacco cast leaf sheets typically have temperatures of about A temperature of 250 degrees is used.

A further advantage associated with operating at lower temperatures is the reduced need to cool the aerosol. Since generally lower temperatures are used, simpler cooling functions may be sufficient. This, in turn, allows for the use of simpler and less complex constructions of aerosol-generating articles.

As briefly discussed above, when the aerosol-generating substrate includes homogenized plant material, the homogenized plant material may be provided in the form of one or more sheets.

The one or more sheets described herein each individually have a thickness of 100 micrometers to 600 micrometers, preferably 150 micrometers to 300 micrometers, most preferably 200 micrometers to 250 micrometers. It is possible. Individual thickness refers to the thickness of the individual sheets, and combined thickness refers to the total thickness of all sheets that make up the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, if the aerosol-generating substrate is formed from two individual sheets, the combined thickness is the sum of the two individual sheet thicknesses or the measured thicknesses of the two sheets; The sheets are stacked within the aerosol generating substrate.

One or more sheets described herein can each individually have a basis weight of about 100 grams per square meter to about 600 grams per square meter.

One or more sheets as described herein each individually weigh from about 0.3 grams per cubic centimeter to about 1.3 grams per cubic centimeter, preferably from about 0.7 grams per cubic centimeter to about 1.0 grams per cubic centimeter. / cubic centimeter.

In embodiments of the invention in which the aerosol-generating substrate comprises one or more sheets of homogenized plant material, the sheet is preferably in the form of a collection of one or more sheets. As used herein, the term "aggregation" means that a sheet of homogenized plant material is coiled, folded, or otherwise means compressed or contracted in the manner of

One or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be assembled transversely to its longitudinal axis and surrounded by a wrapper to form a continuous rod or plug.

One or more sheets of homogenized plant material may advantageously be crimped or similarly treated. The term "crimped" as used herein means a sheet having a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations. Alternatively or in addition to being crimped, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be embossed, debossed, perforated, or otherwise deformed to form a sheet of Texture may be provided on one or both sides.

Preferably, each sheet of homogenized plant material may be crimped to have a plurality of ridges or corrugations substantially parallel to the cylindrical axis of the plug. This treatment advantageously facilitates assembling crimped sheets of homogenized plant material to form plugs. Preferably, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material can be assembled. It will be appreciated that the crimped sheet of homogenized plant material may have a plurality of substantially parallel ridges or corrugations at acute or obtuse angles to the cylindrical axis of the plug. The sheet is crimped to such an extent that the integrity of the sheet is interrupted by multiple parallel ridges or wrinkles, causing separation of the material and resulting in the formation of fragments, strands, or strips of homogenized plant material. It's okay.

Alternatively, one or more sheets of homogenized plant material may be cut into strands as mentioned above. In such embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises multiple strands of homogenized plant material. The strands can be used to form a plug. Typically, the width of such strands is about 5 mm, or about 4 mm, or about 3 mm, or about 2 mm, or less. The length of the strands may be greater than about 5 millimeters, about 5 millimeters to about 15 millimeters, about 8 millimeters to about 12 millimeters, or about 12 millimeters long. . Preferably, the strands have substantially the same length as each other.

The homogenized plant material may contain up to about 95 weight percent plant particles on a dry weight basis. Preferably, the homogenized plant material comprises at most about 90 weight percent plant particles, more preferably at most about 80 weight percent, and more preferably at most about 70 weight percent plant particles, on a dry weight basis. of plant particles, more preferably up to about 60 weight percent plant particles, more preferably up to about 50 weight percent plant particles.

For example, the homogenized plant material may have from about 2.5 weight percent to about 95 weight percent plant particles, or from about 5 weight percent to about 90 weight percent plant particles, or from about 10 weight percent, on a dry weight basis. to about 80 weight percent plant particles, or about 15 weight percent to about 70 weight percent plant particles, or about 20 weight percent to about 60 weight percent plant particles, or about 30 weight percent to about 50 weight percent plant particles. may include.

In certain embodiments of the invention, the homogenized plant material is homogenized tobacco material comprising tobacco particles. Sheets of homogenized tobacco material used in such embodiments of the invention may have a tobacco content of at least about 40 weight percent on a dry weight basis, and at least about 50 weight percent on a dry weight basis. more preferably have a tobacco content of at least about 70 weight percent on a dry weight basis, and most preferably have a tobacco content of at least about 90 weight percent on a dry weight basis. .

The term "tobacco particles" in the context of the present invention describes particles of any plant member of the Nicotiana species. The term "tobacco particles" refers to crushed or powdered tobacco leaf lamina, crushed or powdered tobacco stalks, tobacco dust, tobacco fines, and other particulate tobacco by-products formed during tobacco processing, handling, and shipping. include. In a preferred embodiment, the tobacco particles are derived substantially entirely from tobacco leaf lamina. In contrast, isolated nicotine and nicotine salts, although compounds derived from tobacco, are not considered tobacco particles for the purposes of this invention and are not included in the proportion of particulate plant material.

The aerosol generating substrate may further include one or more aerosol formers. Upon volatilization, the aerosol former can carry other vaporized compounds, such as nicotine and flavoring agents, in the aerosol that are released from the aerosol-generating substrate upon heating. Aerosol formers suitable for inclusion in the homogenized plant material are known in the art and include polyhydric alcohols such as triethylene glycol, propylene glycol, 1,3-butanediol and glycerol; These include, but are not limited to, esters (glycerol mono-, di- or triacetate), and aliphatic esters of mono-, di- or polycarboxylic acids (such as dimethyl dodecanedioic acid and dimethyl tetradecanedioate).

The aerosol-generating substrate may contain about 5 weight percent to about 30 weight percent on a dry weight basis, such as about 10 weight percent to about 25 weight percent on a dry weight basis, or about 15 weight percent to about 20 weight percent on a dry weight basis. It can have an aerosol former content.

For example, if the substrate is intended for use in an aerosol-generating article for an electrically operated aerosol-generating system having a heating element, it may contain from about 5 weight percent to about 30 weight percent aerosol former on a dry weight basis. Preferably, the amount may be included. When the substrate is intended for use in an aerosol-generating article for an electrically operated aerosol-generating system having a heating element, the aerosol former is preferably glycerol.

In another embodiment, the aerosol-generating substrate can have an aerosol former content of about 1 weight percent to about 5 weight percent on a dry weight basis. For example, if the substrate is intended for use in an aerosol-generating article in which the aerosol former is held in a reservoir separate from the substrate, the substrate may contain more than 1 percent and less than about 5 percent aerosol former. It may have a content. In such embodiments, the aerosol-forming body volatilizes upon heating and the stream of aerosol-forming body contacts the aerosol-generating substrate so as to incorporate flavor from the aerosol-generating substrate into the aerosol.

In other embodiments, the aerosol generating substrate may have an aerosol former content of about 30 weight percent to about 45 weight percent. This relatively high level aerosol former is particularly suitable for aerosol generating substrates intended to be heated at temperatures below 275 degrees Celsius. In such embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate preferably comprises about 2 weight percent to about 10 weight percent cellulose ether on a dry weight basis and about 5 weight percent to about 50 weight percent additional cellulose on a dry weight basis. further including. It has been found that the use of a combination of cellulose ether and additional cellulose results in particularly effective delivery of aerosol when used in an aerosol generating substrate having an aerosol former content of 30 weight percent to 45 weight percent. It was done.

Suitable cellulose ethers include, but are not limited to, methylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, ethylcellulose, hydroxylethylcellulose, hydroxylpropylcellulose, ethylhydroxylethylcellulose, and carboxymethylcellulose (CMC). In particularly preferred embodiments, the cellulose ether is carboxymethylcellulose.

As used herein, the term "additional cellulose" encompasses any cellulosic material incorporated into the aerosol-generating substrate, which includes non-tobacco plant particles or tobacco that are provided to the aerosol-generating substrate. Not derived from particles. Thus, the additional cellulose is added to the aerosol-generating substrate as a separate and distinct source of cellulose for any cellulose inherently provided within the non-tobacco plant material or tobacco particles, in addition to the non-tobacco plant material or tobacco material. be incorporated into. The additional cellulose is typically derived from non-tobacco plant particles or a different plant than the tobacco particles. Preferably, the additional cellulose is in the form of an inert cellulosic material, which is sensory inert and therefore does not substantially affect the organoleptic properties of the aerosol generated from the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, the additional cellulose is preferably a tasteless and odorless material.

Additional cellulose may include cellulose powder, cellulose fibers, or combinations thereof.

The aerosol former can act as a wetting agent in the aerosol generating substrate.

The wrapper surrounding the rod of homogenized plant material may be a paper wrapper or a non-paper wrapper. Suitable paper wrappers for use with certain embodiments of the invention are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, cigarette paper and filter plug wrap.
Suitable non-paper wrappers for use in certain embodiments of the invention are known in the art and include, but are not limited to, sheets of homogenized tobacco material. In certain preferred embodiments, the wrapper may be formed from a laminated material that includes multiple layers. Preferably, the wrapper is formed from aluminum co-laminated sheets. The use of a co-laminated sheet containing aluminum advantageously prevents combustion of the aerosol-generating substrate in the event that the aerosol-generating substrate is to be ignited rather than heated in the intended manner.

In some other embodiments of the invention, the aerosol-generating substrate includes a gel composition that includes an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol-generating substrate comprises a gel composition that includes nicotine.

Preferably, the gel composition comprises an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound, an aerosol former, and at least one gelling agent. Preferably, the at least one gelling agent forms a solid medium, the glycerol is dispersed within the solid medium, and the alkaloid or cannabinoid is dispersed within the glycerol. Preferably, the gel composition is in a stable gel phase.

Advantageously, stable gel compositions containing nicotine provide a predictable composition form during storage or in transit from manufacture to consumer. A stable gel composition containing nicotine substantially maintains its shape. Stable gel compositions containing nicotine do not substantially release liquid phase during storage or in transit from manufacture to consumer. Stable gel compositions containing nicotine may provide a simple consumable design. The consumable may not need to be designed to contain liquid, and therefore a wider range of materials and container constructions may be contemplated.

The gel compositions described herein may be combined with an aerosol generator to deliver nicotine aerosol to the lungs at an inhalation rate or airflow rate that is within the inhalation rate or airflow rate of traditional smoking methods. . The aerosol generator may continuously heat the gel composition. A consumer can take multiple inhalations or "vapes" with each "puff" delivering an amount of nicotine aerosol. The gel composition is capable of delivering a high nicotine/low total particulate matter (TPM) aerosol to the consumer upon heating, preferably in a continuous manner.

The phrase "stable gel phase" or "stable gel" refers to a gel that substantially maintains its shape and mass when exposed to various environmental conditions. Stable gels are substantially incapable of releasing or absorbing water (sweat) when exposed to standard temperatures and pressures while varying relative humidity from about 10 percent to about 60 percent. For example, a stable gel can substantially maintain its shape and mass when exposed to standard temperatures and pressures while varying relative humidity from about 10 percent to about 60 percent.

The gel composition includes an alkaloid compound, or a cannabinoid compound, or both an alkaloid compound and a cannabinoid compound. Gel compositions may include one or more alkaloids. Gel compositions may include one or more cannabinoids. Gel compositions may include a combination of one or more alkaloids and one or more cannabinoids.

The term "alkaloid compound" refers to any one class of naturally occurring organic compounds that contain one or more basic nitrogen atoms. Generally, alkaloids contain at least one nitrogen atom in an amine type structure. This or another nitrogen atom within the molecule of the alkaloid compound can be active as a base in acid-base reactions. Most alkaloid compounds have one or more of their nitrogen atoms as part of a ring system, such as a heterocycle. In nature, alkaloid compounds are found primarily in plants, and are particularly common in certain families of flowering plants. However, some alkaloid compounds are found in animal species and fungi. In this disclosure, the term "alkaloid compound" refers to both naturally occurring and synthetically produced alkaloid compounds.

The gel composition preferably comprises an alkaloid compound selected from the group consisting of nicotine, anatabine, and combinations thereof.

Preferably, the gel composition includes nicotine.

The term "nicotine" refers to nicotine and nicotine derivatives, such as free base nicotine, nicotine salts, and the like.

The term "cannabinoid compound" refers to any one type of naturally occurring compounds found in parts of the cannabis plants Cannabis sativa, Cannabis indica, and Cannabis ruderalis. means. Cannabinoid compounds are particularly concentrated in female flower heads. Cannabinoid compounds naturally occurring in the cannabis plant include cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). In this disclosure, the term "cannabinoid compound" is used to describe both naturally occurring and synthetically produced cannabinoid compounds.

As mentioned above, embodiments of the invention in which the aerosol generating element comprises an aerosol generating substrate comprising a gel composition can advantageously include an upstream element upstream of the aerosol generating element. In this case, the upstream element advantageously prevents physical contact with the gel composition. The upstream element can also advantageously compensate for any potential reduction in RTD due to, for example, evaporation of the gel composition due to heating of the aerosol generating element during use. Further details regarding the provision of one such upstream element are described below.

The downstream section may have any length. The downstream section can have a length of at least about 10 millimeters. For example, the downstream section may have a length of at least about 15 mm, at least about 20 mm, at least about 25 mm, or at least about 30 mm.

By providing a downstream section with a length greater than the above values, space can advantageously be obtained for the aerosol to cool and condense before reaching the consumer. This also ensures that the user is kept away from the heating element when the aerosol generating article is used in conjunction with an aerosol generating device.

The downstream section may have a length of about 60 millimeters or less. For example, the downstream section may have a length of about 50 mm or less, about 55 mm or less, about 40 mm or less, or about 35 mm or less.

The downstream section has a length of about 10 mm to about 60 mm, about 15 mm to about 50 mm, about 20 mm to about 55 mm, about 25 mm to about 40 mm, or about 30 mm to about 35 mm. It's okay. For example, the downstream section may have a length of approximately 33 millimeters.

The ratio of the length of the downstream section to the length of the aerosol generating substrate can be from about 1.0 to about 4.5.

Preferably, the ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the aerosol generating substrate is at least about 1.5, more preferably at least about 2.0, and even more preferably at least about 2.5. be. In preferred embodiments, the ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the aerosol generating substrate is less than about 4.0, more preferably less than about 3.5, and even more preferably less than about 3.0. It is less than 0.

In some embodiments, the ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the aerosol generating substrate is from about 1.5 to about 4.0, preferably from about 2.0 to about 3.5. , more preferably about 2.5 to about 3.0.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the ratio between the length of the downstream section and the length of the aerosol generating substrate is about 2.75.

The ratio between the length of the downstream section and the total length of the aerosol generating article may be from about 0.1 to about 1.5.

Preferably, the ratio of the length of the downstream section to the total length of the aerosol generating article is at least about 0.25, more preferably at least about 0.50. Preferably, the ratio of the length of the downstream section to the total length of the aerosol generating article is less than about 1.25, more preferably less than about 1.0.

In some embodiments, the ratio of the length of the downstream section to the total length of the aerosol generating article is preferably from about 0.25 to about 1.25, more preferably from about 0.5 to about 1.0.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the ratio between the length of the downstream section and the total length of the aerosol generating article is about 0.73 or about 0.64.

The length of the downstream section can be made up of the sum of the lengths of the individual components forming the downstream section.

The RTD of the downstream section can be about 100 mm _H2O or less. For example, the RTD of the downstream section is less than or equal to about 50 mm H ₂ O, less than or equal to about 25 mm _{H 2} O, less than or equal to about 15 mm H ₂ O, less than or equal to about 10 mm H 2 O, less than or equal to about 8 mm _{H 2 O} , less than or equal to about 5 mm H ₂ O, or less than or equal to about 1 mm _{H 2} O. It may be.

The downstream section can include an unobstructed airflow path from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate to the downstream end of the downstream section.

The unobstructed airflow path from the downstream end of the aerosol generating substrate to the downstream end of the downstream section has a minimum diameter of about 0.5 millimeters. For example, an unobstructed airflow path can have a minimum diameter of 1 mm, 2 mm, 3 mm, or 5 mm.

The downstream section may include a hollow tubular element.

Providing a hollow tubular element may advantageously provide the desired overall length of the aerosol generating article without unacceptably increasing withdrawal resistance.

The hollow tubular element can extend from the downstream end of the downstream section to the upstream end of the downstream section. In other words, the entire length of the downstream section can be occupied by a hollow tubular element. In this case, it will be understood that the lengths and length ratios described above for the downstream section are equally applicable to the length of the hollow tubular element.

A hollow tubular element may be adjacent the downstream end of the aerosol generating article.

The hollow tubular element may be spaced apart from the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. In this case, an empty space may exist between the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate and the upstream end of the hollow tubular element.

The hollow tubular element may have an inner diameter. The hollow tubular element may have a constant inner diameter along the length of the hollow tubular element. The inner diameter of the hollow tubular element may vary along the length of the hollow tubular element.

The hollow tubular element may have an inner diameter of at least about 2 millimeters. For example, the hollow tubular element may have an inner diameter of at least about 4 millimeters, at least about 5 millimeters, or at least about 7 millimeters.

Providing a hollow tubular element with an inner diameter as presented above may advantageously provide sufficient stiffness and strength to the hollow tubular element.

The hollow tubular element may have an inner diameter of about 10 millimeters or less. For example, the hollow tubular element may have an inner diameter of about 9 mm or less, about 8 mm or less, or about 7.5 mm or less.

Providing a hollow tubular element with an inner diameter as presented above may advantageously reduce the withdrawal resistance of the hollow tubular element.

The hollow tubular element may have an inner diameter of about 2 mm to about 10 mm, about 4 mm to about 9 mm, about 5 mm to about 8 mm, or 7 mm to about 7.5 mm.

The hollow tubular element may have an inner diameter of about 7.1 millimeters.

The ratio between the inner diameter of the hollow tubular element and the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element may be at least about 0.8. For example, the ratio between the inner diameter of the hollow tubular element and the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element may be at least about 0.85, at least about 0.9, or at least about 0.95.

The ratio between the inner diameter of the hollow tubular element and the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element may be about 0.99 or less. For example, the ratio between the inner diameter of the hollow tubular element and the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element may be about 0.98 or less.

The ratio between the inner diameter of the hollow tubular element and the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element may be about 0.97.

By providing a relatively large internal diameter, the withdrawal resistance of the hollow tubular element can be advantageously reduced.

The lumen of the hollow tubular element may have any cross-sectional shape. The lumen of the hollow tubular element may have a circular cross-sectional shape.

The hollow tubular element may be formed from any material. For example, the hollow tubular element comprises cellulose acetate tow. When the hollow tubular element comprises cellulose acetate tow, the hollow tubular element can have a thickness of about 0.1 millimeter to about 1 millimeter. The hollow tubular element may have a thickness of approximately 0.5 millimeters.

When the hollow tubular element comprises cellulose acetate tow, the cellulose acetate tow may have a denier/filament of about 2 to about 4 and a total denier of about 25 to about 40.

The hollow tubular element may include paper. The hollow tubular element may include at least one layer of paper. The paper may be a very stiff paper. The paper may be crimped paper, such as crimped heat-resistant paper or crimped parchment paper. The paper may be cardboard. The hollow tubular segment may be a paper tube. The hollow tubular element may be a tube formed from spirally wound paper. The hollow tubular segment may be formed from multiple layers of paper. The paper may have a basis weight of at least about 50 grams/square meter, at least about 60 grams/square meter, at least about 70 grams/square meter, or at least about 90 grams/square meter.

If the tubular element comprises paper, the paper may have a thickness of at least about 50 micrometers. For example, the paper may have a thickness of at least about 70 micrometers, at least about 90 micrometers, or at least about 100 micrometers.

The hollow tubular element may include a polymer. For example, the hollow tubular element may include a polymeric film. The polymeric film may include a cellulose film. The hollow tubular element may include low density polyethylene (LDPE) or polyhydroxyalkanoate (PHA) fibers.

The downstream section may include a modified tubular element. A modified tubular element may be provided in place of a hollow tubular element. A modified tubular element may be provided immediately downstream of the aerosol generating substrate. The modified tubular element may be adjacent to the aerosol generating substrate.

The modified tubular element may include a tubular body defining a cavity extending from a first upstream end of the tubular body to a second downstream end of the tubular body. The modified tubular element may also include a folded end forming a first end wall at the first upstream end of the tubular body. The first end wall can define an opening that allows airflow between the cavity and the exterior of the modified tubular element. Preferably, the opening is configured to allow airflow to flow from the aerosol-generating substrate through the opening and into the cavity.

The cavity of the tubular body may be substantially empty to allow substantially unrestricted airflow along the cavity. The RTD of the modified tubular element may be localized to a particular longitudinal location of the modified tubular element. In particular, the RTD of the modified tubular element may be localized to the first end wall. In this way, the RTD of the modified tubular element can be substantially controlled through the selected configuration of the first end wall and its corresponding opening. The RTD of the modified tubular element (essentially the RTD of the first end wall) may be about 5 millimeters _H2O .

The modified tubular element may have any length. The modified tubular element has a length of about 10 mm to about 60 mm, about 15 mm to about 50 mm, about 20 mm to about 55 mm, about 25 mm to about 40 mm, or about 30 mm to about 35 mm. It may have. For example, the modified tubular element may have a length of about 33 millimeters.

The modified tubular element may have any outer diameter ( _DE ). The modified tubular element may have an outer diameter (D _E ) of about 5 mm to about 12 mm, about 6 mm to about 12 mm, or about 7 mm to about 12 mm. The modified tubular element may have an outer diameter (D _E ) of about 7.3 millimeters.

The modified tubular element may have any inner diameter (D _I ). The modified tubular element has an inner diameter (D _I ) of about 2 mm to about 10 mm, about 4 mm to about 9 mm, about 5 mm to about 8 mm, or 7 mm to about 7.5 mm. Good too. The modified tubular element may have an inner diameter (D _I ) of about 7.1 millimeters.

The modified tubular element may have a peripheral wall of any thickness. The peripheral wall of the modified tubular element may have a thickness of about 0.05 mm to about 0.5 mm. The peripheral wall of the modified tubular element may have a thickness of about 0.1 millimeter.

The downstream section may be provided with ventilation. Venting is provided to allow cooler air from outside the aerosol generating article to enter the interior of the downstream section.

Aerosol generating articles typically will have a ventilation level of at least about 10 percent, preferably at least about 20 percent.

In preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating article has a ventilation level of at least about 20 percent or 25 percent or 30 percent. More preferably, the aerosol generating article has an air permeability level of at least about 35 percent.

Preferably, the aerosol generating article has a ventilation level of less than about 80 percent. More preferably, the aerosol generating article has a ventilation level of less than about 60 percent or less than about 50 percent.

Aerosol generating articles generally have a ventilation level of about 10 percent to about 80 percent.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article has a ventilation level of about 20 percent to about 80 percent, preferably about 20 percent to about 60 percent, and more preferably about 20 percent to about 50 percent. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating article has a ventilation level of about 25 percent to about 80 percent, preferably about 25 percent to about 60 percent, and more preferably about 25 percent to about 50 percent. In another embodiment, the aerosol generating article has a ventilation level of about 30 percent to about 80 percent, preferably about 30 percent to about 60 percent, and more preferably about 30 percent to about 50 percent.

In particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating article has a ventilation level of about 40 percent to about 50 percent. In some particularly preferred embodiments, the aerosol generating article has a ventilation level of about 45 percent.

While not wishing to be bound by theory, the inventors believe that the temperature reduction caused by admitting cooler outside air into the hollow tubular element has a beneficial effect on the nucleation and growth of aerosol particles. It was found that there are cases where

The formation of aerosols from gaseous mixtures containing various species depends on the delicate interplay between nucleation, evaporation, condensation, and even fusion, accounting for changes in vapor concentration, temperature, and velocity fields. Depends on the action. The so-called classical nucleation theory is based on the assumption that a fraction of molecules in the gas phase is large enough such that it remains coherent for long periods of time with sufficient probability (e.g., a one-in-two probability). ing. These molecules represent a type of critical, threshold molecular cluster within a temporary molecular aggregate, meaning that smaller molecular clusters are generally more likely to break down into the gas phase somewhat quickly, while more Larger clusters generally mean easier growth. These critical clusters are identified as the main nucleation cores where droplets are expected to grow due to condensation of molecules from the vapor. It is assumed that the freshly nucleated raw droplet emerges with a certain native diameter and may subsequently grow by several orders of magnitude. This may be facilitated and enhanced by rapid cooling of the surrounding vapor, inducing condensation. In this regard, it is helpful to keep in mind that evaporation and condensation are two aspects of one and the same mechanism, gas-liquid mass transfer. Evaporation involves the net mass transfer from the droplet to the gas phase, while condensation is the net mass transfer from the gas phase to the droplet phase. Evaporation (or condensation) causes the droplets to shrink (or grow), but the number of droplets does not change.

In this scenario (where the scenario is further complicated by fusion phenomena), the temperature and rate of cooling may play an important role in determining how the system responds. In general, since the nucleation process is typically non-linear, different cooling rates may lead to significantly different temperature behavior with respect to liquid phase (droplet) formation. Without wishing to be bound by theory, it is believed that cooling can cause a rapid increase in the number of droplets condensing, followed by a short-lived strong increase in this growth (nucleation burst). It is assumed. This nucleation burst appears to be more pronounced at lower temperatures. Furthermore, it appears that faster cooling rates may favor early initiation of nucleation. In contrast, a reduction in the cooling rate appears to have a beneficial effect on the final size that the aerosol droplets ultimately reach.

Therefore, the rapid cooling induced by admitting outside air into the hollow tubular element can be used to advantage for favorable nucleation and growth of aerosol droplets. At the same time, however, admitting outside air into the hollow tubular element has the direct disadvantage of dilution of the aerosol stream delivered to the consumer.

The inventors have surprisingly found that the dilution effect on the aerosol, which can be assessed in particular by measuring the effect on the delivery of an aerosol former (such as glycerol) contained in the aerosol-generating substrate, advantageously , have found that ventilation levels are minimized when they are within the ranges mentioned above. In particular, aeration levels of 25 percent to 50 percent, even more preferably 28 to 42 percent, have been found to lead to particularly satisfactory glycerin delivery values. At the same time, the extent of nucleation and, as a result, the delivery of nicotine and aerosol formers (eg, glycerol) is enhanced.

Venting into the downstream section may occur along substantially the entire length of the downstream section. In this case, the downstream section may include a porous material that allows air to enter the downstream section. For example, if the downstream section comprises a hollow tubular element, the hollow segment may be formed from a porous material that allows air to enter the interior of the hollow tubular element. If the downstream section comprises a wrapper, the wrapper may be formed from a porous material that allows air to enter the interior of the hollow tubular element.

The downstream section may include a first ventilation zone for providing ventilation to the downstream section. The first ventilation zone comprises a portion of the downstream section through which a greater amount of air can pass compared to the remainder of the downstream section. For example, the first ventilation zone may be a portion of the downstream section that has a higher porosity than the remainder of the downstream section.

The first ventilation zone may comprise a porous portion of the downstream section having at least 5 percent ventilation. For example, the first ventilation zone can comprise a porous portion of the downstream section having a ventilation of at least 10 percent, at least 20 percent, at least 25 percent, at least 30 percent, or at least 35 percent.

The first ventilation zone may comprise a porous portion of the downstream section having a ventilation of 80 percent or less. For example, the first ventilation zone may comprise a porous portion of the downstream section having a ventilation of 60 percent or less, or less than 50 percent.

The first ventilation zone may comprise a porous portion of the downstream section having a ventilation of 10 percent to 80 percent, 20 percent to 80 percent, 20 percent to 60 percent, or 20 percent to 50 percent. In another embodiment, the first ventilation zone may comprise a porous portion of the downstream section having a ventilation of 25 percent to 80 percent, 25 percent to 60 percent, or 25 percent to 50 percent. In another embodiment, the first ventilation zone may comprise a porous portion of the downstream section having a ventilation of 30 percent to 80 percent, 30 percent to 60 percent, or 30 percent to 50 percent.

The first ventilation zone may include a porous portion of the downstream section having a ventilation of 40 percent to 50 percent. In some particularly preferred embodiments, the first ventilation zone may include a porous portion of the downstream section having 45 percent ventilation.

The first ventilation zone may include a first row of perforations surrounding the periphery of the downstream section.

In some embodiments, the first ventilation zone may include two circumferential rows of perforations. For example, the perforations may be formed on-line during manufacture of the aerosol-generating article. Each circumferential row of perforations may include from about 5 to about 40 perforations; for example, each circumferential row of perforations may include from about 8 to about 30 perforations.

When the aerosol generating article comprises a combination plug wrap, the ventilation zone preferably comprises at least one corresponding circumferential row of perforations extending through a portion of the combination plug wrap. These may be formed on-line during manufacturing of the smoking article. Preferably, the one or more circumferential rows of perforations provided through the portion of the combination plug wrap are substantially aligned with the one or more rows of perforations extending through the downstream section.

If the aerosol-generating article comprises a band of tipping paper, and the band of tipping paper extends over one or more circumferential rows of perforations in the downstream section, the ventilation zone preferably extends through the band of tipping paper. at least one corresponding circumferential row of perforations provided in the same direction. These may be formed on-line during manufacturing of the smoking article. Preferably, the one or more circumferential rows of perforations provided through the strip of tipping paper are substantially aligned with the one or more rows of perforations passing through the downstream section.

The first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having a width of at least about 50 micrometers. For example, the first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having a width of at least about 65 micrometers, at least about 80 micrometers, at least about 90 micrometers, or at least about 100 micrometers.

The first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having a width of about 200 micrometers or less. For example, the first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having a width of about 175 micrometers or less, about 150 micrometers or less, about 125 micrometers or less, or about 120 micrometers or less.

The first row of perforations has a width of about 50 micrometers to about 200 micrometers, about 65 micrometers to about 175 micrometers, about 90 micrometers to about 150 micrometers, or about 100 micrometers to about 120 micrometers. at least one perforation having a

When the perforations are formed using laser drilling techniques, the width of the perforations can be determined by the focal diameter of the laser.

The first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having a length of at least about 400 micrometers. For example, the first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having a length of at least about 425 micrometers, at least about 450 micrometers, at least about 475 micrometers, or at least about 500 micrometers.

The first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having a length of about 1 millimeter or less. For example, the first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having a length of about 950 micrometers or less, about 900 micrometers or less, about 850 micrometers or less, or about 800 micrometers or less.

The first row of perforations may be about 400 micrometers to about 1 millimeter, about 425 micrometers to about 950 micrometers, about 450 micrometers to about 900 micrometers, about 475 micrometers to about 850 micrometers, or about 500 micrometers. At least one perforation having a length of meters to about 800 micrometers can be provided.

The first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having an open area of at least about 0.01 square millimeters. For example, the first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having an open area of at least about 0.02 square millimeters, at least about 0.03 square millimeters, or at least about 0.05 square millimeters.

The first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having an open area of about 0.5 square millimeters or less. For example, the first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having an open area of about 0.3 square millimeters or less, about 0.25 square millimeters or less, or about 0.1 square millimeters or less.

The first row of perforations is about 0.01 square millimeters to about 0.5 square millimeters, about 0.02 square millimeters to about 0.3 square millimeters, about 0.03 square millimeters to about 0.25 square millimeters, or At least one perforation having an open area of about 0.05 square millimeters to about 0.1 square millimeters can be provided. The first row of perforations can include at least one perforation having an open area of about 0.05 square millimeters to about 0.096 square millimeters.

The first ventilation zone may include a second row of perforations surrounding the downstream section. The second row of perforations may have any of the characteristics described above in relation to the first row of perforations.

As mentioned above, the aerosol generating article may include a wrapper surrounding at least a portion of the downstream section, and the first ventilation zone may include a porous portion of the wrapper.

The wrapper may be a paper wrapper and the first ventilation zone may include a portion of porous paper.

As mentioned above, the downstream section may include a hollow tubular element spaced from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate. In this case, the hollow tubular element may be connected to the aerosol-generating substrate by a paper wrapper. The wrapper may be a porous paper wrapper. In this case, the first ventilation zone may comprise a portion of the porous paper wrapper covering the space between the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate and the upstream end of the hollow tubular element. In this case, the upstream end of the first ventilation zone is adjacent to the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate, and the downstream end of the first ventilation zone is adjacent to the upstream end of the hollow tubular element.

The porous portion of the wrapper that forms the first ventilation zone may have a lower basis weight than the portion of the wrapper that does not form part of the first ventilation zone.

The porous portion of the wrapper that forms the first ventilation zone may have a thickness that is less than the thickness of the portion of the wrapper that does not form part of the first ventilation zone.

The upstream end of the first ventilation zone may be less than 10 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol generating substrate.

For example, the upstream end of the first ventilation zone may be less than 8 millimeters, less than 5 millimeters, less than 3 millimeters, or less than 1 millimeter from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate.

The upstream end of the first ventilation zone can be longitudinally aligned with the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate.

The upstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located less than 25 percent of the path along the length of the downstream element from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, the upstream end of the first ventilation zone is less than 20 percent, less than 18 percent, less than 15 percent, less than 10 percent, less than 5 percent, or less than 5 percent of the path along the length of the downstream element from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate. It can be placed at less than 1 percent.

The downstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located less than 30 percent of the path along the length of the downstream element from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, the downstream end of the first vent zone is less than 25 percent, less than 20 percent, less than 18 percent, less than 15 percent, less than 10 percent of the path along the length of the downstream element from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate, or It can be placed at less than 5 percent.

The downstream end of the first ventilation zone may be less than 10 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol generating substrate. In other words, the first ventilation zone may be located entirely within 10 millimeters of the aerosol generating substrate.

For example, the downstream end of the first ventilation zone may be less than 8 millimeters, less than 5 millimeters, or less than 3 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate.

The first ventilation zone may be located anywhere along the length of the downstream section. The downstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located no more than about 25 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. For example, the first ventilation zone can be located no more than about 20 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

Positioning the first ventilation zone as outlined above may advantageously prevent the first ventilation zone from becoming obstructed when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating device. .

The downstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located at least about 8 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol generating article. For example, the downstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located at least about 10 mm, at least 12 mm, or at least about 15 mm from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

Positioning the first ventilation zone as outlined above may advantageously prevent the first ventilation zone from being occluded by the user's mouth or lips during use of the aerosol-generating article. .

The downstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located about 8 mm to about 25 mm, about 10 mm to about 25 mm, or about 15 mm to about 20 mm from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The downstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located about 18 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol generating article.

The upstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located at least about 20 millimeters from the upstream end of the aerosol generating article. For example, the upstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located at least about 25 millimeters from the upstream end of the aerosol generating article.

Positioning the first ventilation zone as outlined above may advantageously prevent the first ventilation zone from becoming obstructed when the aerosol-generating article is inserted into the aerosol-generating device. .

The upstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located no more than 37 millimeters from the upstream end of the aerosol generating article. For example, the upstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located no more than about 30 millimeters from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article.

Positioning the first ventilation zone as outlined above may advantageously prevent the first ventilation zone from being occluded by the user's mouth or lips during use of the aerosol-generating article. .

The upstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located about 20 mm to about 37 mm, or about 25 mm to about 30 mm from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article. The upstream end of the first ventilation zone can be located about 27 millimeters from the downstream end of the aerosol generating article.

The first ventilation zone may have any length. The first ventilation zone may have a length of at least 0.5 mm. In other words, the longitudinal distance between the downstream end of the first ventilation zone and the upstream end of the first ventilation zone is at least 0.5 millimeters. For example, the first ventilation zone may have a length of at least 1 mm, at least 2 mm, at least 5 mm, or at least 8 mm.

The first ventilation zone may have a length of 10 millimeters or less. For example, the first ventilation zone may have a length of 8 mm or less, or 5 mm or less.

The first ventilation zone may have a length of about 0.5 mm to about 10 mm. For example, the first ventilation zone may have a length of about 1 mm to about 8 mm, or about 2 mm to about 5 mm.

In addition to the hollow tubular element and the aerosol-generating element, the aerosol-generating article can further comprise additional elements or components, such as filter segments or mouthpiece segments. More preferably, the downstream section of the aerosol-generating article may further comprise elements or components, such as filter segments or mouthpiece segments, in addition to the hollow tubular element.

Such additional elements may be located downstream of the hollow tubular element. Such additional elements can be placed immediately downstream of the hollow tubular element. Such additional elements may be placed between the aerosol generating element and the hollow tubular element. Such additional elements may extend from the downstream end of the hollow tubular element to the mouth end of the aerosol generating article or to the downstream end of the downstream section. Such additional elements are preferably downstream elements or segments. Such additional elements may be filter elements or segments, or mouthpiece segments. Such additional elements can form part of the downstream section of the aerosol generating article of the present disclosure. Such additional elements may be axially aligned with the remaining components of the aerosol generating article, such as the aerosol generating element and the hollow tubular element. Additionally, the additional element may have a diameter similar to the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element, the diameter of the aerosol-generating element, or the diameter of the aerosol-generating article.

The aerosol-generating articles of the present disclosure preferably include a wrapper surrounding the downstream section (or components of the downstream section). Such a wrapper may be an outer tipping wrapper surrounding the downstream section and a portion of the aerosol generating element such that the downstream section is attached to the aerosol generating element.

The downstream section of the aerosol generating article of the present disclosure can define a concave cavity.

The "additional elements" described above may also be referred to in this disclosure as the "first section" or "first segment" of the "downstream section." The term "first segment" or "additional element" in this disclosure may alternatively refer to "mouthpiece segment", "retention segment", "downstream segment", "mouthpiece element", "downstream element", Sometimes referred to as a "retention element," "filter element," or "filter segment," or "downstream plug element." The term "mouthpiece" may refer to an element of an aerosol-generating article that is positioned downstream of the aerosol-generating element of the article, preferably near the mouth end of the article.

As noted above, about 5 percent to about 35 percent of the length of the downstream section may include a first section defining a first empty area for air flow, and the length of the downstream section may include at least about 65 percent of the total cross-sectional area of the first empty area defined by the first section may include a second section defining a second empty area for air flow; may be less than the total cross-sectional area of the second empty region defined by the second section. The inventors have discovered that such a longitudinal distribution of the first and second empty areas within the downstream section ensures that a relatively low RTD of the downstream section is achieved, while at the same time not significantly increasing the RTD, and A downstream component (first section) is provided that is provided with a physical barrier capable of preventing inadvertent shedding of any material from the aerosol-generating element from the mouth end of the aerosol-generating article during normal use. I discovered that.

The term "empty area" refers to an area or space through which air can flow. For example, a hollow tubular element can define a cavity that provides an empty region. The further segment may include a plurality of airflow channels defined through the segment, and such plurality of airflow channels may define an empty area within the further segment for passage of air. good. In accordance with the present disclosure, a filter or retention segment may also provide an empty region defined by a plurality of gaps within the material forming the filter or retention segment for passage of air.

A first section or portion of a downstream section refers to a section, portion, or component of a downstream section that defines a first empty area or space. Similarly, a second section or portion of a downstream section refers to a section, portion, or component of a downstream section that defines a second empty area or space.

A first section of the downstream section may include one or more first segments in accordance with this disclosure. The first segment can include at least one segmental airflow channel extending along the length of the first segment. The first empty region may be defined by at least one (first) segmental airflow channel. At least one segmental airflow channel may be defined within and by the first section of the downstream section. In other words, if the first section comprises a first segment, at least one segmental airflow channel may be defined internally within and along the first segment of the downstream section. As mentioned above, the first segment of the downstream section may include a mouthpiece segment. Preferably, the at least one segmental airflow channel extends along the entire length of the first segment, from an upstream end of the first segment to a downstream end of the first segment.

The second empty region may include at least one cavity. The at least one cavity can provide an unrestricted airflow channel extending along the length of the aerosol-generating article. A second section of the downstream section may include a second segment. The second segment may be a hollow tubular element according to the present disclosure. The second section of the downstream section may include one hollow tubular element. The second empty region may be defined by at least one hollow tubular element. Providing a majority of the length of the downstream section with at least one hollow tubular element ensures that a relatively low RTD of the downstream section, and the aerosol generating article as a whole, is achieved.

The downstream section may include a second section comprising two hollow tubular elements and a first section comprising a first segment. The second empty region may be defined by two hollow tubular elements. The first section may be located between two hollow tubular elements. The two hollow tubular elements may be of different lengths or may be substantially the same length as each other. In such embodiments, the two cavities defined by the two hollow tubular elements (together) define a second empty region. The second sky region may be divided into multiple sky regions.

Alternatively, the downstream section may comprise a second section comprising a hollow tubular element and a first section comprising at least one first segment. The hollow tubular element can extend from the downstream end of the aerosol generating element to the mouth end of the aerosol generating article. At least one first segment of the first section can be disposed within and along the hollow tubular element. Accordingly, the at least one first segment defines a cavity defined by the hollow tubular element, one upstream of the at least one first segment and another downstream of the at least one first segment. Can be divided into two hollow parts. The at least one first segment forming the first section of the downstream section may define a first empty region, and two cavities defined on opposite sides of the at least one first segment. The portion may form a second section of the downstream section and may define a second empty region. The most downstream one of the hollow portions may define a concave cavity extending from the downstream end of the at least one first segment to the mouth end of the aerosol generating article, and the most upstream one of the hollow portions may define a concave cavity extending from the downstream end of the at least one first segment to the mouth end of the aerosol generating article. one defines a cavity between the upstream end of the at least one first segment (or first section) and the downstream end of the aerosol generating element (also considered to be the upstream end of the downstream section); Good too.

The first segment may be positioned near the mouth end of the aerosol generating article. The first segment may extend to the mouth end of the aerosol generating article. The first segment may extend from the downstream end of the second section, which may include a hollow tubular element, to the mouth end of the aerosol-generating article. Alternatively, the first segment may be positioned upstream of the mouth end of the aerosol generating article. Preferably, the first segment may be located downstream of any ventilation zone or ventilation line provided in the downstream section. Preferably, the first segment is located in the downstream half of the downstream section. The downstream half of a downstream section refers to the portion of the downstream section that extends from the center or center of the downstream section to the mouth or downstream end of the downstream section. Thus, the length of the downstream half of the downstream section may be equal to 50 percent of the length of the downstream section. Preferably, the first segment may be located at a location between the venting zone or venting line (or the most downstream venting zone or venting line) and the mouth end of the article.

Providing the first segment of the first section at or near the mouth end of the aerosol-generating article provides structural rigidity and integrity in the downstream portion of the downstream section, the majority of which at least one hollow tubular element defining a second empty region) while simultaneously providing the first empty region to maintain a relatively low RTD of the aerosol-generating article; Providing a physical barrier that prevents the portion that falls off the generating element from exiting the aerosol generating article via the mouth end allows a certain amount of air to pass through.

The upstream end of the first segment of the first section may be located no more than about 18 mm downstream from the downstream end of the downstream section. The upstream end of the first segment of the first section may be located no more than about 15 mm downstream from the downstream end of the downstream section. The upstream end of the first segment of the first section may be located no more than about 12 mm downstream from the downstream end of the downstream section. The upstream end of the first segment of the first section may be located at least about 0 mm downstream from the most downstream ventilation zone or line. The upstream end of the first segment of the first section may be located at least about 1 mm downstream from the most downstream ventilation zone or line. The upstream end of the first segment of the first section may be located at least about 2 mm downstream from the most downstream ventilation zone or line.

Alternatively, the first segment can be placed upstream of any ventilation zone or ventilation line provided in the downstream section. The first segment may be located in the upstream half of the downstream section. The upstream half of a downstream section refers to the portion of the downstream section that extends from the middle or center of the downstream section to the upstream end of the downstream section. Thus, the length of the upstream half of the downstream section may be equal to 50 percent of the length of the downstream section. The first segment can be located at a location between the ventilation zone or line (or the most upstream ventilation zone or line) and the downstream end of the aerosol generating element.

The diameter of the first segment (or first section) may be substantially the same as the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element. As mentioned in this disclosure, the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element may be about 7.3 mm.

The diameter of the first segment may be about 5 mm to about 10 mm. The diameter of the first segment may be about 6 mm to about 8 mm. The diameter of the first segment may be about 7 mm to about 8 mm. The diameter of the first segment may be approximately 7.3 mm.

Alternatively, the diameter of the first segment (or first section) may be substantially the same as the inner diameter of at least one hollow tubular element of the second section. In other words, the diameter of the first section may be the same as the inner diameter of the second section. As mentioned in this disclosure, the inner diameter of the hollow tubular element may be about 7.1 mm. The diameter of the first segment may be about 7.1 mm. Alternatively, the first segment may be placed within a hollow tubular element of the second section of the downstream section. The first segment is therefore preferably air-tightly connected to the hollow It may be enclosed around the walls of the tubular element.

Alternatively, about 5 to about 30 percent of the length of the downstream section may comprise a first section defining a first empty area for air to flow, and at least about 70 percent of the length of the downstream section. The percent may include a second section defining a second empty area for air to flow. More preferably, about 5 to about 25 percent of the length of the downstream section may comprise a first section defining a first empty area for air flow, and at least about 25 percent of the length of the downstream section. Approximately 75 percent may include a second section defining a second empty area for air flow. Even more preferably, about 5 to about 20 percent of the length of the downstream section may comprise a first section defining a first empty area for air flow; At least about 80 percent may include a second section defining a second empty area for air flow. Alternatively, about 5 to about 15 percent of the length of the downstream section may comprise a first section defining a first empty area for air to flow, and at least about 85 percent of the length of the downstream section. The percent may include a second section defining a second empty area for air to flow. Preferably, about 5 to about 10 percent of the length of the downstream section may include a first section defining a first empty area for air flow, and at least about 10 percent of the length of the downstream section. The ninety percent may include a second section defining a second empty area for air flow.

Unless otherwise specified, the resistance to withdrawal (RTD) of a component or aerosol generating article is measured according to ISO 6565-2015. RTD refers to the pressure required to force air through the length of a component. The term "pressure drop" or "draw resistance" of a component or article can also refer to "resistance to draw." These terms typically refer to the output or downstream end of a component where measurements in accordance with ISO 6565-2015 are made at a temperature of approximately 22 degrees Celsius, a pressure of approximately 760 Torr, and a relative humidity of approximately 60%. at a volumetric flow rate of approximately 17.5 milliliters per second.

The withdrawal resistance per unit length of a particular component (or element) of an aerosol-generating article, e.g., the downstream section, first section, or first segment, determines the measured component withdrawal resistance along the It can be calculated by dividing by the total length in the direction. RTD per unit length refers to the pressure required to force air through a unit length of a component. Throughout this disclosure, unit length refers to a length of 1 mm. Therefore, in order to derive the RTD per unit length of a particular part, test pieces of a particular length of the component, for example 15 mm, can be used for measurements. The RTD of such specimens is measured according to ISO 6565-2015. For example, if the measured RTD is about 15 mm _H2O , then the RTD per unit length of the component is about 1 mm _H2O per mm. The RTD per unit length of a component depends on, among other factors, the structural properties of the materials used in the component and the cross-sectional shape or contour of the component.

The relative RTD per unit length, or RTD, of the downstream section may be from about 0 mm H ₂ O per mm to about 3 mm H ₂ O per mm. The RTD per unit length of the downstream section may be from about 0 mm H ₂ O per mm to about 0.75 mm H ₂ O per mm.

As mentioned above, the relative RTD or RTD per unit length of the downstream section may be from about 0 mm H ₂ O per mm to about 3 mm H ₂ O per mm. The RTD per unit length of the downstream section may be greater than about 0 mm _H2O per mm and less than about 0.75 mm _H2O per mm.

The RTD per unit length of the downstream section may be greater than or equal to about 0 mm _H2O per mm. Thus, the RTD per unit length of the downstream section may be from about 0 mm H ₂ O per mm to about 3 mm H ₂ O per mm. The RTD per unit length of the downstream section may be from about 0 mm H ₂ O per mm to about 0.75 mm H ₂ O per mm.

The withdrawal resistance of the downstream section may be greater than or equal to about 0 mm _H2O and less than about 10 mm _H2O . The withdrawal resistance of the downstream section may be greater than 0 mm _H2O and less than about 1 mm _H2O .

The resistance to withdrawal (RTD) characteristic of the downstream section can be completely or mostly attributable to the RTD characteristic of the first section of the downstream section. In other words, the RTD of the first section of the downstream section can completely determine the RTD of the downstream section.

The relative RTD or RTD per unit length of the first section (or at least the first segment defining the first section) may be from about 0 mm H ₂ O to about 3 mm H ₂ O per mm. The RTD per unit length of the first section may be from about 0 mm H ₂ O per mm to about 0.75 mm H ₂ O per mm.

As mentioned above, the relative RTD or RTD per unit length of the first section may be from about 0 mm H ₂ O per mm to about 3 mm H ₂ O per mm. The RTD per unit length of the first section may be greater than about 0 mm _H2O per mm and less than about 0.75 mm _H2O per mm.

The RTD per unit length of the first section may be greater than or equal to about 0 mm _H2O per mm. Accordingly, the RTD per unit length of the first section may be from about 0 mm H ₂ O per mm to about 3 mm H ₂ O per mm. The RTD per unit length of the first section may be from about 0 mm H ₂ O per mm to about 0.75 mm H ₂ O per mm.

The withdrawal resistance of the first section (or the first segment forming the first section) may be greater than or equal to about 0 _mmH2O and less than about 10 _mmH2O . The withdrawal resistance of the first section may be greater than 0 mm _H2O and less than about 1 mm _H2O .

The first segment can include at least one segment (airflow) channel extending along the first segment. Segmented airflow channels may also be referred to throughout this disclosure. Providing at least one segmental airflow channel in the first segment allows the downstream section to provide a relatively low RTD by allowing air to flow while the first segment Ensure that a physical barrier is provided to prevent inadvertent egress of aerosol-generating element material from the mouth end of the aerosol-generating article. As mentioned in this disclosure, the aerosol generating element material can include a plant cut filler, specifically a tobacco cut filler.

The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the at least one segment channel to the total cross-sectional area of the first segment (or first section) of the downstream section may be at least about 5%. In other words, the open or first empty area defined by the first segment may have a total cross-sectional area that is at least about 5 percent of the total cross-sectional area of the first segment. The total cross-sectional area of the first segment, first section, second section, downstream section, aerosol-generating element or aerosol-generating article is the first segment, first section, second section, downstream section, aerosol It may be the same as the cross-sectional area calculated based on the corresponding outer diameter of the generating element or aerosol generating article. The total cross-sectional area of a component in this disclosure refers to the total area within the outer periphery of a (transverse) cross-section of such component. For example, the total cross-sectional area of a cylindrical component may be equal to the outer diameter of the cylindrical component, ie, the area of a circular cross-section calculated based on the amount of area occupied by the cross-section of the component. As another example, in the present disclosure, the total cross-sectional area of the hollow tubular element may be equal to the circular cross-sectional area calculated based on the outer diameter of the hollow tubular element. The total cross-sectional area of the first empty region may be the same as the sum of the cross-sectional areas of each of the at least one segment channel defined by the first segment of the first section of the downstream section.

The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the at least one segment channel (of the first segment) to the total cross-sectional area of the first segment (or section) may be at least 10%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the at least one segment channel (of the first segment) to the total cross-sectional area of the first segment (or section) may be at least 30%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the at least one segment channel (of the first segment) to the total cross-sectional area of the first segment (or section) may be at least 40%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the at least one segment channel to the total cross-sectional area of the first segment may be at least 65%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the at least one segment channel to the total cross-sectional area of the first segment may be at least 70%. Furthermore, the first segment itself may be porous. By providing many segment channels, or open areas, empty spaces or empty areas, the RTD of the first segment and the downstream section, and the RTD per unit length, are advantageously low, while at the same time the aerosol-generating element Ensure that there is sufficient first segment material to prevent any portion from leaking out of the article.

The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the at least one segment channel to the total cross-sectional area of the first segment may be at most about 95%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the at least one segment channel to the total cross-sectional area of the first segment may be at most about 85%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the at least one segment channel to the total cross-sectional area of the first segment may be at most about 75%.

The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the second empty region of the downstream section to the total cross-sectional area of the second section may be at least about 25%. In other words, the open area defined by the second empty area of the downstream section is at least about 25% of the total cross-sectional area of the second section of the downstream section, which may have a uniform cross-sectional area. Good too. Preferably, the total cross-sectional area of the first section of the downstream section is the same as the total cross-sectional area of the second section of the downstream section. Thus, the cross-sectional area of the downstream section may be substantially uniform.

The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the second empty region to the total cross-sectional area of the downstream section may be at least about 50%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the second empty region to the total cross-sectional area of the downstream section may be at least about 75%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the second empty region to the total cross-sectional area of the downstream section may be at least about 80%. Providing a large open or empty area ensures that the RTD and RTD per unit length of the downstream section and the entire aerosol generating article are beneficially low.

The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the second empty region to the total cross-sectional area of the second section may be at most about 99%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the second empty region to the total cross-sectional area of the second section may be at most about 95%. The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the second empty region to the total cross-sectional area of the second section may be at most about 90%.

The ratio of the total cross-sectional area of the second empty region to the total cross-sectional area of the first empty region, which may be defined by the at least one segmental airflow channel, is greater than about 1.1 (110%), preferably about 1 3 (130%), more preferably about 1.5 (150%), and even more preferably about 2 (200%).

The at least one segmental airflow channel may have an inner diameter or width of about 1 mm to about 6 mm. The at least one segmental airflow channel may have an inner diameter or width of about 2 mm to about 5 mm. The at least one segmental airflow channel may have an inner diameter or width of about 3 mm to about 4 mm.

The inner diameter or width of the at least one segmental airflow channel (defining the first empty region) may be smaller than the inner diameter of the airflow channel provided by the at least one cavity of the second empty region. As mentioned above, according to the present disclosure, at least one cavity may be defined by at least one hollow tubular element. Accordingly, the hollow tubular element defining the second empty region may have the same characteristics, eg, shape, as the hollow tubular element defined in this disclosure.

The first segment may be formed from a fibrous material. The first segment may be formed from a porous material. The first segment may be formed from a biodegradable material. The first segment may be formed from a cellulosic material, such as cellulose acetate. For example, the first segment may be formed from a bundle of cellulose acetate fibers having a denier of about 10 to about 15 per filament. For example, a first segment formed from a relatively low density cellulose acetate tow, such as a cellulose acetate tow comprising about 12 denier fibers per filament, has a density of about 0.8 to about 2.5 mm H ₂ per mm per unit length. O RTDs can be provided.

The first segment may be formed from a polylactic acid-based material. The first segment may be formed of a bioplastic material, preferably a starch-based bioplastic material. The first segment may be made by injection molding or extrusion. The bioplastic-based material is easy to manufacture, has a certain complex cross-sectional profile, can include a plurality of relatively large airflow channels extending through the first segment material, and provides suitable RTD properties. This is advantageous because it can provide a first segment structure that is also inexpensive.

The first segment is formed from a sheet of suitable material that is crimped, pleated, gathered, woven, or folded into an element that defines a plurality of longitudinally extending channels. It's okay. Such sheets of suitable materials may be formed of paper, cardboard, polymers such as polylactic acid, or any other cellulosic, paper-based or bioplastic-based materials. The cross-sectional profile of such a first segment may exhibit randomly oriented channels.

The first segment may be formed in any other suitable manner. For example, the first segment may be formed from a bundle of longitudinally extending tubes. The longitudinally extending tube may be formed from polylactic acid. The first segment may be formed by extrusion, molding, lamination, injection or shredding of suitable materials. Therefore, it is preferred that there be a low pressure drop (or RTD) from the upstream end of the first segment to the downstream end of the first segment.

The first segment may not be constructed from a hollow tubular element as defined in this disclosure, and it may have a single unobstructed airflow channel between its upstream and downstream ends. Define. Such hollow tubular elements can effectively provide an RTD of 0 mm H ₂ O, and an RTD per unit length.

The length of the first segment may be at least about 1 mm. The length of the first segment should not exceed approximately 15 mm. The length of the first segment may be about 1 mm to 15 mm. The length of the first segment may be about 5 mm to 15 mm. Preferably, the length of the first segment may be about 1 mm to about 10 mm. The length of the first segment may be approximately 6 mm. The length of the first section (or the first segment of the first section) is less than the length of the second section of the downstream section, which may be defined by at least one hollow tubular element; As a result, the relatively low RTD characteristics of the downstream section are preferably not affected by a relatively long first segment having a higher RTD than a second section or part of the downstream section.

The upstream end of the aerosol generating article can be defined by a wrapper. Providing a wrapper at the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article can advantageously retain the aerosol-forming substrate on the aerosol-generating article. This feature may also advantageously prevent the user from directly contacting the aerosol-generating substrate.

The wrapper may be mechanically closed at the upstream end of the aerosol generating article. This can be accomplished by folding or twisting the wrapper. An adhesive may be used to close the upstream end of the aerosol generating article.

The wrapper defining the upstream end of the aerosol generating article may be formed from the same piece of material as the wrapper surrounding at least a portion of the downstream section.

With this provision, manufacturing of the aerosol generating article can advantageously be simplified as only one piece of wrapper material can be required. Additionally, the use of a one-piece wrapper material may eliminate the need for a seam to connect two pieces of wrapper material. This may advantageously simplify manufacturing. Seamlessness can also advantageously prevent or reduce leakage of any of the aerosol-generating substrate from the aerosol-generating article.

The aerosol generating article of the present invention further comprises an upstream section. The upstream section may include an upstream element upstream of the aerosol generating substrate. The upstream element may extend from the upstream end of the aerosol generating substrate to the upstream end of the aerosol generating article. The upstream element may be adjacent the upstream end of the aerosol generating article.

The aerosol generating article may include an air inlet at the upstream end of the aerosol generating article. If the aerosol generating article comprises an upstream element, the air inlet may be provided through the upstream element. Air entering through the air inlet may pass through the aerosol generating substrate to generate a mainstream aerosol.

The upstream section may have a high RTD.

In embodiments of the invention in which the downstream section has a relatively low RTD, such as an RTD of less than about 10 mm H ₂ O, providing an upstream section with a relatively high RTD is advantageous in that the filter downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate An acceptable overall RTD can be provided without the need for high RTD factors such as. In use, air enters the aerosol-generating article through the upstream end of the upstream section, passes through the upstream section, and into the aerosol-generating substrate. The air then enters and passes through the downstream section and then exits from the downstream end of the downstream section.

The RTD of the upstream section may account for the majority of the RTD of the entire aerosol generating article.

The ratio of the upstream section RTD to the downstream section RTD may be greater than one. For example, the ratio of upstream section RTD to downstream section RTD is greater than about 2, greater than about 5, greater than about 8, greater than about 10, greater than about 15, greater than about 20, or greater than about 50. It's okay.

The RTD of the upstream section may be at least about 5 mm _H2O . For example, the RTD of the upstream section may be at least about 10 mm _H2O , at least about 12 mm _H2O , at least about 15 mm _H2O , at least about 20 mm _H2O .

The RTD of the upstream section may be about 150 mm _H2O or less. For example, the RTD of the upstream section may be about 100 mm _H2O or less, about 80 mm _H2O or less, about 70 mm _H2O or less, about 60 mm _H2O or less, about 50 mm _H2O or less, about 40 mm H2O _or less.

The RTD of the upstream section may be about 5 mm H ₂ O to about 80 mm H ₂ O. For example, the RTD of the upstream section may be about 10 mm H ₂ O to about 70 mm H ₂ O, about 12 mm H ₂ O to about 60 mm H ₂ O, about 15 mm H ₂ O to about 50 mm H ₂ O, or about 20 mm _{H 2} O to about 40 mm _{H 2} O. It's okay.

The upstream section can advantageously be prevented from direct physical contact with the upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate. Specifically, when the aerosol-generating substrate comprises a susceptor element, the upstream section can be prevented from directly physically contacting the upstream end of the susceptor element. This helps prevent displacement or deformation of the susceptor element during handling or transportation of the aerosol-generating article. This in turn serves to fix the form and position of the susceptor element. Furthermore, the presence of the upstream section helps to prevent any loss of the substrate, which can be advantageous, for example, if the substrate contains particulate plant material.

The upstream section can also provide an improved appearance to the upstream end of the aerosol generating article. Additionally, if desired, the upstream section may be used to provide information about the aerosol-generating article, such as information regarding the brand, flavor, content, or details of the aerosol-generating device for which the article is intended to be used. can be done.

If the upstream section comprises an upstream element, the upstream element may comprise a porous plug element. The porous plug element can have a porosity of at least about 50 percent along the longitudinal axis of the aerosol generating article. More preferably, the porous plug element has a longitudinal porosity of about 50 percent to about 90 percent. The porosity of the longitudinal porous plug element is determined by the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the material forming the porous plug element to the internal cross-sectional area of the aerosol-generating article at the location of the porous plug element.

The porous plug element may be made of porous material or may include multiple openings. This can be achieved, for example, by laser drilling. Preferably, the plurality of openings are distributed homogeneously over the cross-section of the porous plug element.

The porosity or permeability of the upstream element may be advantageously varied to provide the desired overall withdrawal resistance of the aerosol-generating article.

In alternative embodiments, the upstream element may be formed from a material that is impermeable to air. In such embodiments, the aerosol-generating article may be configured to allow air to flow into the rods of the aerosol-generating substrate via suitable ventilation means provided within the wrapper.

The upstream element may be made of any material suitable for use in an aerosol generating article. For example, the upstream element may include a plug of material. Suitable materials for the upstream element include filter materials, ceramics, polymeric materials, cellulose acetate, cardboard, zeolites, or aerosol-generating substrates. Preferably, the upstream section comprises a plug containing cellulose acetate.

If the upstream element includes a plug of material, the downstream end of the plug of material may be around the upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate. For example, the upstream element can include a plug containing cellulose acetate that abuts the upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate. This may advantageously help hold the aerosol-generating substrate in place.

If the upstream element comprises a plug of material, the downstream end of the plug of material may be spaced apart from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate. The upstream element may include a plug containing a fibrous filtration material.

Preferably the upstream element is formed of a heat resistant material. For example, the upstream element is preferably formed from a material that can withstand temperatures up to 350 degrees Celsius. This ensures that the upstream element is not adversely affected by the heating means for heating the aerosol-generating substrate.

Preferably, the upstream section has a diameter approximately equal to the diameter of the aerosol generating article.

The upstream section may have a length of at least about 1 millimeter. For example, the upstream section may have a length of at least about 2 mm, at least about 4 mm, or at least about 6 mm.

The upstream section may have a length of about 15 millimeters or less. For example, the upstream section may have a length of about 12 millimeters or less, about 10 millimeters or less, or about 8 millimeters or less.

The upstream section may have a length of about 1 mm to about 15 mm. For example, the upstream section may have a length of about 2 mm to about 12 mm, about 4 mm to about 10 mm, or about 6 mm to about 8 mm.

The length of the upstream section can be advantageously varied to provide the desired overall length of the aerosol generating article. For example, if it is desired to decrease the length of one of the other components of the aerosol generating article, the length of the upstream section can be increased to maintain the same overall length of the article.

Preferably, the upstream section has a substantially homogeneous structure. For example, the upstream section can be substantially homogeneous in texture and appearance. The upstream section may, for example, have a continuous regular surface throughout its cross section. The upstream section may, for example, have no discernible symmetry.

The upstream section may include a second tubular element. A second tubular element may be provided in place of the upstream element. A second tubular element may be provided immediately upstream of the aerosol generating substrate. The second tubular element may abut the aerosol-generating substrate.

The second tubular element may include a tubular body defining a cavity extending from a first upstream end of the tubular body to a second downstream end of the tubular body. The second tubular element may also include a folded end forming a first end wall at the first upstream end of the tubular body. The first end wall can define an opening that allows airflow between the cavity and the exterior of the second tubular element. Preferably, air can flow from the cavity through the opening and into the aerosol generating substrate.

The second tubular element can include a second end wall at a second end of its tubular body. This second end wall may be formed by folding one end of the second tubular element at the second downstream end of the tubular body. The second end wall can define an opening that allows airflow between the cavity and the exterior of the second tubular element. In the case of the second end wall, the opening can be configured to allow air to flow from outside the aerosol generating article through the opening and into the cavity. Thus, the opening may provide a conduit through which air can be drawn into the aerosol-generating article and through the aerosol-generating substrate.

The upstream element or second tubular element is preferably surrounded by a wrapper. Preferably, the wrapper surrounding the upstream element or second tubular element is a rigid plug wrap, such as a plug wrap having a basis weight of at least about 80 grams per square meter (gsm), or at least about 100 gsm, or at least about 110 gsm. . This provides structural rigidity to the upstream element.

As mentioned above, the present disclosure also relates to an aerosol generation system that includes an aerosol generation device having a distal end and a proximal end. The aerosol generator includes a main body. The body of the aerosol generating device may define a device cavity for removably receiving an aerosol generating article at the oral end of the device. The aerosol generating device includes a heating element or heater for heating the aerosol generating substrate when the aerosol generating article is received within the device cavity.

The device cavity may be referred to as the heating chamber of the aerosol generator. The device cavity may extend between the distal end and the proximal or proximal end. The distal end of the device cavity may be a closed end and the proximal or proximal end of the device cavity may be an open end. The aerosol generating article may be inserted into the device cavity or heating chamber through the open end of the device cavity. The device cavity may be cylindrical in shape to match the same shape of the aerosol generating article.

The expression "received within" may refer to the fact that a component or element is fully or partially received within another component or element. For example, the phrase "an aerosol-generating article is received within the device cavity" refers to the aerosol-generating article being fully or partially received within the device cavity of the aerosol-generating article. When the aerosol-generating article is received within the device cavity, the aerosol-generating article may abut the distal end of the device cavity. When the aerosol-generating article is received within the device cavity, the aerosol-generating article may be substantially proximate the distal end of the device cavity. A distal end of the device cavity may be defined by an end wall.

The aerosol generating device can include an elongated heater (or heating element) positioned to be inserted into the aerosol generating article when the aerosol generating article is housed within the device cavity. An elongated heater may be positioned with the device cavity. An elongate heater may extend into the device cavity. Alternative heating arrangements are discussed further below.

The heater may be any suitable type of heater.

Preferably, the heater is capable of externally heating the aerosol-generating article when housed within the aerosol-generating device. Such an external heater can surround the aerosol generating article when inserted or received within the aerosol generating device.

In some embodiments, the heater is positioned to heat the outer surface of the aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, the heater is positioned to be inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-forming substrate is received within the cavity. The heater may be placed within the device cavity or heating chamber.

The heater may include at least one heating element. The at least one heating element may be any suitable type of heating element. In some embodiments, the device includes only one heating element. In some embodiments, the device includes multiple heating elements. The heater may include at least one resistive heating element. Preferably, the heater includes a plurality of resistance heating elements. Preferably, the resistance heating elements are electrically connected in a parallel arrangement. Advantageously, providing multiple resistive heating elements electrically connected in a parallel arrangement reduces or minimizes the voltage required to provide the desired power to the heater. may facilitate the delivery of desired power. Advantageously, reducing or minimizing the voltage required to operate the heater may facilitate reducing or minimizing the physical size of the power supply.

In some embodiments, the heater comprises an induction heating arrangement. The induction heating arrangement may include an inductor coil and a power source configured to provide a high frequency oscillating current to the inductor coil. High frequency oscillating current as used herein refers to oscillating current having a frequency of 500 kHz to 30 MHz. The heater may advantageously include a DC/AC inverter for converting the DC current provided by the DC power source into alternating current. The inductor coil may be arranged to generate a high frequency oscillating electromagnetic field upon receiving a high frequency oscillating current from a power source. The inductor coil may be positioned to generate a high frequency oscillating electromagnetic field within the device cavity. In some embodiments, the inductor coil can substantially surround the device cavity. The inductor coil may extend at least partially along the length of the device cavity.

The heater may include an induction heating element. The induction heating element may be a susceptor element. As used herein, the term "susceptor element" refers to an element that includes a material that has the ability to convert electromagnetic energy into heat. When the susceptor element is placed in an alternating electromagnetic field, the susceptor is heated. Heating of the susceptor element may be the result of at least one of hysteresis losses and eddy currents induced within the susceptor, depending on the electrical properties and magnetic properties of the susceptor material.

The susceptor element may be arranged such that the oscillating electromagnetic field generated by the inductor coil induces a current in the susceptor element and heats the susceptor element when the aerosol generating article is received within the cavity of the aerosol generating device. In these embodiments, the aerosol generator has a magnetic field strength (H field strength) of 1 to 5 kiloamperes per meter (kA/m), preferably 2 to 3 kA/m, such as about 2.5 kA/m. Preferably, it is capable of generating a fluctuating electromagnetic field. Preferably, the electrically operated aerosol generator is capable of generating a fluctuating electromagnetic field with a frequency of 1 to 30 MHz, such as 1 to 10 MHz, such as 5 to 7 MHz.

In some embodiments, the susceptor element is located within the aerosol generating article. In these embodiments, the susceptor element is preferably positioned in contact with the aerosol-forming substrate. A susceptor element may be located within the aerosol-forming substrate.

In some embodiments, the susceptor element is located within the aerosol generator. In these embodiments, the susceptor element may be located within the cavity. The aerosol generating device may include only one susceptor element. The aerosol generator may include multiple susceptor elements.

In some embodiments, the susceptor element is positioned to heat the outer surface of the aerosol-forming substrate. In some embodiments, the susceptor element is positioned to be inserted into the aerosol-forming substrate when the aerosol-forming substrate is received within the cavity.

The susceptor element may include any suitable material. The susceptor element may be formed from any material that can be inductively heated to a temperature sufficient to release volatile compounds from the aerosol-forming substrate. Suitable materials for the elongated susceptor element include graphite, molybdenum, silicon carbide, stainless steel, niobium, aluminum, nickel, nickel-containing compounds, titanium, and composites of metallic materials. Some susceptor elements include metal or carbon. Advantageously, the susceptor element may comprise or consist of a ferromagnetic material, such as ferromagnetic alloys, ferromagnetic particles, and ferrites, such as ferritic iron, ferromagnetic steel or stainless steel. A suitable susceptor element may be or include aluminum. The susceptor element preferably comprises greater than about 5 percent, preferably greater than about 20 percent, more preferably greater than about 50 percent or greater than about 90 percent ferromagnetic or paramagnetic material. Some elongated susceptor elements may be heated to temperatures in excess of about 250 degrees Celsius.

The susceptor element may include a non-metallic core with a metal layer arranged on the non-metallic core. For example, the susceptor element may include a ceramic core or metal tracks formed on the outer surface of the substrate.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating device may include at least one resistive heating element and at least one inductive heating element. In some embodiments, the aerosol generation device may include a combination of resistive and inductive heating elements.

In use, the heater can be controlled to operate within a defined operating temperature range below a maximum operating temperature. The operating temperature range within the heating chamber (or device cavity) is preferably about 150 degrees Celsius to about 250 degrees Celsius. The operating temperature range of the heater may be about 150 degrees Celsius to about 250 degrees Celsius. The operating temperature range of the heater may be about 180 degrees Celsius to about 200 degrees Celsius.

In embodiments where the aerosol-generating article comprises a venting zone at a location along the downstream section or hollow tubular element, the venting zone may be arranged to be exposed when the aerosol-generating article is housed within the device cavity. I can do it.

The aerosol generator may include a power source. The power source may be a DC power source. In some embodiments, the power source is a battery.

The aerosol generating article may have a length of about 35 millimeters to about 100 millimeters.

Preferably, the overall length of an aerosol generating article according to the present invention is at least about 38 millimeters. More preferably, the overall length of an aerosol generating article according to the invention is at least about 40 millimeters. Even more preferably, the overall length of an aerosol generating article according to the invention is at least about 42 millimeters.

Preferably, the overall length of the aerosol generating article according to the invention is 70 millimeters or less. More preferably, the total length of the aerosol generating article according to the invention is 60 millimeters or less. Even more preferably, the overall length of the aerosol generating article according to the invention is 50 millimeters or less.

In some embodiments, the overall length of the aerosol generating article is preferably from about 38 mm to about 70 mm, more preferably from about 40 mm to about 70 mm, and more preferably from about 42 mm to about 70 mm. Even more preferred. In other embodiments, the overall length of the aerosol generating article is preferably from about 38 mm to about 60 mm, more preferably from about 40 mm to about 60 mm, and more preferably from about 42 mm to about 60 mm. is even more preferred. In further embodiments, the overall length of the aerosol generating article is preferably from about 38 mm to about 50 mm, more preferably from about 40 mm to about 50 mm, and more preferably from about 42 mm to about 50 mm. Even more preferred. In an exemplary embodiment, the total length of the aerosol generating article is approximately 45 millimeters.

The aerosol generating article has an outer diameter of at least 5 millimeters. Preferably, the aerosol generating article has an outer diameter of at least 6 millimeters. More preferably, the aerosol generating article has an outer diameter of at least 7 millimeters.

Preferably, the aerosol generating article has an outer diameter of about 12 millimeters or less. More preferably, the aerosol generating article has an outer diameter of about 10 millimeters or less. Even more preferably, the aerosol generating article has an outer diameter of about 8 millimeters or less.

In some embodiments, the aerosol generating article has an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 12 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 12 mm, more preferably about 7 mm to about 12 mm. In other embodiments, the aerosol generating article has an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 10 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 10 mm, more preferably about 7 mm to about 10 mm. In further embodiments, the aerosol generating article has an outer diameter of about 5 mm to about 8 mm, preferably about 6 mm to about 8 mm, more preferably about 7 mm to about 8 mm.

The aerosol generating article may have a length of 3.7 mm to 9 mm, or 5.7 mm to 7.9 mm.

One or more of the components of the aerosol-generating article may be individually surrounded by a wrapper. In a preferred embodiment, all components of the aerosol generating article are individually surrounded by their own wrapper. Preferably, at least one of the components of the aerosol generating article is wrapped in a hydrophobic wrapper.

The term "hydrophobic" refers to a surface that exhibits water-repellent properties. One useful way to determine this is to measure the water contact angle. "Water contact angle" is the angle conventionally measured through a liquid where the liquid/vapor interface meets a solid surface. It quantifies the wettability of a solid surface by a liquid via Young's equation. Hydrophobicity or water contact angle may be determined by utilizing the TAPPI T558 test method, and results are expressed as interfacial contact angle and are reported in "degrees", ranging from approximately 0 to approximately 180 degrees. I can do it.

In preferred embodiments, the hydrophobic wrapper comprises a paper layer having a water contact angle of about 30 degrees or more, preferably about 35 degrees or more, or about 40 degrees or more, or about 45 degrees or more.

By way of example, the paper layer may include PVOH (polyvinyl alcohol) or silicone. PVOH may be applied to the paper layer as a surface coating, or the paper layer may include a surface treatment that includes PVOH or silicone.

In a particularly preferred embodiment, the aerosol-generating article according to the invention comprises, in a linear sequential arrangement, an aerosol-generating element comprising a rod with an aerosol-generating substrate and a hollow tubular element arranged immediately downstream of the aerosol-generating element. Be prepared.

More particularly, the hollow tubular element may abut the aerosol generating element.

The aerosol generating article has a substantially cylindrical shape and an outer diameter of about 7.3 millimeters.

The hollow tubular element is in the form of a hollow cellulose acetate tube and has an inner diameter of approximately 7.1 millimeters. The thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular element is therefore approximately 0.1 mm. Venting zones are provided at locations along the hollow tubular element.

The aerosol-generating element is in the form of a rod of aerosol-generating substrate surrounded by a paper wrapper, and is of the type of aerosol-generating substrate mentioned above, such as vegetable cut fillers, especially tobacco cut fillers, homogenized tobacco, gel formulations, or homogenized plant material containing particles of plants other than tobacco.

An outer tipping wrapper surrounds the hollow tubular element and a portion of the aerosol generating element, with the hollow tubular element being attached to the aerosol generating element.

The rod of the aerosol generating substrate has a length of about 12 millimeters and the hollow tubular element has a length of about 33 millimeters or about 29 millimeters. Thus, the total length of the aerosol generating article is about 45 millimeters or about 41 millimeters.

In another preferred embodiment, an aerosol-generating article according to the invention comprises, in a linear continuous arrangement, an aerosol-generating element comprising an upstream element, an aerosol-generating element located immediately downstream of the upstream element, a rod comprising an aerosol-generating substrate; and a hollow tubular element positioned immediately downstream of the aerosol generating element.

More particularly, the rod of the aerosol generating substrate may abut the upstream element. Additionally, the hollow tubular element may abut the aerosol generating element.

The aerosol generating article has a substantially cylindrical shape and an outer diameter of about 7.3 millimeters.

The hollow tubular element is in the form of a hollow cellulose acetate tube and has an inner diameter of approximately 7.1 millimeters. The thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular element is therefore approximately 0.1 mm. Venting zones are provided at locations along the hollow tubular element.

The aerosol-generating element is in the form of a rod of aerosol-generating substrate surrounded by a paper wrapper, and is of the type of aerosol-generating substrate mentioned above, such as vegetable cut fillers, especially tobacco cut fillers, homogenized tobacco, gel formulations, or homogenized plant material containing particles of plants other than tobacco.

An outer tipping wrapper surrounds the hollow tubular element and a portion of the aerosol generating element, with the hollow tubular element being attached to the aerosol generating element.

The length of the upstream element is 5 mm, the length of the rod of the aerosol generating substrate is approximately 12 mm, and the length of the hollow tubular element is approximately 28 mm. Therefore, the total length of the aerosol generating article is approximately 45 millimeters.

The invention is defined in the claims. However, a non-exhaustive list of non-limiting examples is provided below. The features of any one or more of these examples may be combined with the features of any one or more of the other examples, embodiments, or aspects described herein.

Example 1:
an aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating article comprising an aerosol-generating substrate, a downstream section extending from a downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate to a downstream end of the aerosol-generating article, and an upstream end of the aerosol-generating article from an upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate; an aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating article comprising an upstream section extending in the direction of the arrow, wherein the ratio of the withdrawal resistance of the upstream section to the withdrawal resistance of the downstream section is greater than 1.
Example 2:
The aerosol-generating article of Example 1, wherein the downstream section has a withdrawal resistance of less than 150 mm _H2O .
Example 3:
The aerosol generating article of Example 1 or 2, wherein the upstream section has a withdrawal resistance of at least 5 mm _H2O .
Example 4:
The aerosol-generating article according to any of Examples 1 to 3, wherein the upstream section has a withdrawal resistance of 5 mm H ₂ O to 80 mm H ₂ O.
Example 5:
The aerosol-generating article of any of Examples 1-4, wherein the upstream section comprises a plug comprising cellulose acetate.
Example 6:
The aerosol-generating article of Example 5, wherein the plug comprises cellulose acetate abutting the upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate.
Example 7:
An aerosol-generating article according to any of Examples 1-6, wherein the upstream section has a length of 1 mm to 15 mm.
Example 8:
The aerosol-generating article according to any one of Examples 1 to 7, wherein the aerosol-generating article has a total withdrawal resistance of 1 mmH ₂ O to 25 mm H ₂ O.
Example 9:
The aerosol-generating article of any of Examples 1-8, wherein the downstream section comprises an unobstructed airflow path from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate to the downstream end of the downstream section.
Example 10:
The aerosol-generating article of Example 9, wherein the unobstructed airflow path from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate to the downstream end of the downstream section has a minimum diameter of 3 millimeters.
Example 11:
An aerosol-generating article according to any of Examples 1-10, wherein the downstream section comprises a hollow tubular element.
Example 12:
An aerosol-generating article according to any of Examples 1-11, wherein the downstream section has a length of at least 15 millimeters.
Example 13:
The aerosol-generating article of any of Examples 1-12, wherein the downstream section comprises a first ventilation zone for providing ventilation into the downstream section.
Example 14:
The aerosol-generating article of Example 13, wherein the first ventilation zone includes a first row of perforations surrounding the downstream section.
Example 15:
An aerosol generation system,
an aerosol generator equipped with a heater;
An aerosol generation system comprising the aerosol generation article according to any one of Examples 1 to 14.

In the following, the invention will be further explained with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 shows a schematic side cross-sectional view of an aerosol-generating article according to an embodiment of the invention. FIG. 2 shows a schematic side cross-sectional view of a variation of the aerosol-generating article of FIG. 1. FIG. FIG. 3 shows a schematic side cross-sectional view of a variation of the aerosol-generating article of FIG. 1. FIG.

The aerosol generating article 100 shown in FIG. 1 includes a rod of an aerosol generating substrate 12 and a downstream section 14 located downstream of the rod 12 of the aerosol generating substrate.

Aerosol generating article 100 further comprises an upstream section located upstream of the aerosol generating element.

Aerosol generating article 100 includes only one upstream section 40 located upstream of aerosol generating substrate 12 . Thus, aerosol generating article 100 extends from a distal end 16 that substantially coincides with the upstream end of upstream element 40 to an orifice or downstream end 18 that substantially coincides with the downstream end of downstream section 14.

Upstream section 40 includes an upstream element 42 disposed immediately upstream of rod 12 of the aerosol generating substrate, and upstream element 42 is longitudinally aligned with rod 12 . In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the downstream end of upstream element 42 abuts the upstream end of rod 12 of the aerosol-generating substrate. The upstream element 42 is provided in the form of a cylindrical plug of cellulose acetate surrounded by a hard wrapper. Upstream element 42 has a length of approximately 5 millimeters. The RTD of upstream element 42 is approximately 30 millimeters _H2O .

Aerosol generating article 100 has an overall length of approximately 45 millimeters.

Aerosol generating substrate 12 includes a tobacco cut filler impregnated with about 12 weight percent of an aerosol former, such as glycerin. Tobacco cut filler contains 90 weight percent tobacco leaf lamina. The cut width of the tobacco cut filler is approximately 0.7 mm. The rod of aerosol generating substrate 12 comprises approximately 130 milligrams of tobacco cut filler.

The downstream section 14 includes a hollow tubular element 20 located immediately downstream of the aerosol-generating substrate 12 and longitudinally aligned with the aerosol-generating substrate 12 . In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the upstream end of the hollow tubular element 20 abuts the downstream end of the rod 12 of the aerosol-generating substrate.

Hollow tubular element 20 defines a hollow section of aerosol generating article 100. The hollow tubular element does not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of the aerosol generating article. More specifically, the RTD of the downstream section is approximately 0 mm _H2O .

Hollow tubular element 20 is provided in the form of a hollow cylindrical tube made of cellulose acetate or stiff paper, such as paper having a gram weight of at least about 90 g/sqm. Hollow tubular element 20 defines an internal cavity 22 that extends from an upstream end 24 of the hollow tubular element all the way to a downstream end 26 of hollow tubular element 20. Internal cavity 22 is substantially empty, thus allowing substantially unrestricted airflow therealong. Hollow tubular element 20 does not substantially contribute to the overall RTD of aerosol generating article 100.

Hollow tubular element 20 has a length of about 33 millimeters, an outer diameter (D _E ) of about 7.3 millimeters, and an inner diameter (D _I ) of about 7.1 millimeters. The thickness of the peripheral wall of the hollow tubular element 20 is therefore approximately 0.1 mm.

Aerosol generating article 100 includes a ventilation zone 30 located along hollow tubular element 20 . More particularly, the venting zone 30 is provided approximately 18 millimeters from the downstream end 26 of the hollow tubular element 20. Thus, in the embodiment of FIG. 1, the ventilation zone 30 is effectively located 18 millimeters from the mouth end 18 of the aerosol generating article 100. The aeration level of aerosol generating article 100 is approximately 40 percent.

In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the aerosol-generating article comprises no additional components downstream of hollow tubular element 20. In the embodiment of FIG.

FIG. 2 shows an aerosol-generating article 200 that is a variation of the aerosol-generating article 10 described above. The aerosol-generating article 200 is similar to the aerosol-generating article 200 of the embodiment of FIG. Generally identical to generated article 10. Instead, a modified aerosol-generating article 200 of the first embodiment comprises a modified tubular element 220 located immediately downstream of the aerosol-generating element 12.

Modified tubular element 220 includes a tubular body 222 defining a cavity 224 extending from a first end of tubular body 222 to a second end of tubular body 222. Modified tubular element 220 also includes a folded end portion forming a first end wall 226 at a first end of tubular body 222. First end wall 226 defines an opening 228 that allows airflow between cavity 224 and the exterior of modified tubular element 220 . Specifically, the embodiment of FIG. 3 is configured to allow aerosol to flow from the aerosol generating element 12 through the opening 228 and into the cavity 224.

Much like the cavity 22 of the first embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the cavity 224 of the tubular body 222 is substantially empty, thus allowing substantially unrestricted airflow along the cavity 222. As a result, the RTD of the modified tubular element 220 can be localized at a particular longitudinal location of the modified tubular element 220, i.e., the first end wall 226, the first end wall 226 and control through the selected configuration of its corresponding aperture 228. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the RTD of modified tubular element 220 (which is essentially the RTD of first end wall 226) is approximately 5 millimeters _H2O .

In the embodiment of FIG. 2, modified tubular element 220 has a length of about 33 millimeters, an outer diameter (D _E ) of about 7.3 millimeters, and an inner diameter (D _FTS ) of about 7.1 millimeters. Therefore, the thickness of the peripheral wall of tubular body 222 is approximately 0.1 millimeter.

FIG. 3 shows an aerosol-generating article 300 that is a variation of the aerosol-generating article 10 described above. The aerosol-generating article 300 differs in that the aerosol-generating article 300 of the second embodiment variant does not include an upstream element 42 provided in the form of a cylindrical plug of cellulose acetate surrounded by a rigid wrapper. It is generally identical to the aerosol generating article 100 of the embodiment of FIG. Instead, aerosol-generating article 300 includes a second tubular element 44 located immediately upstream of aerosol-generating element 12. Accordingly, the hollow tubular element 20 located immediately downstream of the aerosol generating element 12 may be referred to as the first tubular element 20.

Second tubular element 44 includes a tubular body 46 defining a cavity 48 extending from a first end of tubular body 46 to a second end of tubular body 46 . The second tubular element 44 also includes a folded end portion forming a first end wall 50 at the first end of the tubular body 46 . First end wall 50 defines an opening 52 that allows airflow between cavity 48 and the exterior of second tubular element 44 . Specifically, the embodiment of FIG. 3 is configured to allow air to flow from the cavity 48 through the opening 52 and into the aerosol generating element 12.

Additionally, second tubular element 44 includes a second end wall 54 at a second end of tubular body 46 thereof. This second end wall 54 is formed by folding the end portion of the second tubular element 44 at the second end of the tubular body 46 . Second end wall 54 defines an opening 56 that allows airflow between cavity 48 and the exterior of second tubular element 44 . For second end wall 54 , opening 56 is configured to allow air to flow through opening 56 from outside of aerosol-generating article 300 into cavity 48 . Thus, opening 56 provides a conduit through which air can be drawn into aerosol-generating article 300 and through aerosol-generating element 12.

In the variant of FIG. 3 , the downstream end of the second tubular element 44 abuts the upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate 12 . The second tubular element 44 has a length of approximately 5 millimeters. The RTD of the second tubular element 44 is approximately 5 millimeters _H2O .

Claims (15)

An aerosol-generating article, the aerosol-generating article comprising:
an aerosol-generating substrate;
a downstream section extending from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate to the downstream end of the aerosol-generating article;
and an upstream section extending from the upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate to the upstream end of the aerosol-generating article,
the ratio of the pull-out resistance of the upstream section to the pull-out resistance of the downstream section is greater than 1;
An aerosol-generating article, wherein the upstream section has a withdrawal resistance of 150 mmH ₂ O or less. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1, wherein the downstream section has a withdrawal resistance of less than 150 mm _H2O . 3. The aerosol-generating article of claim 1 or 2, wherein the upstream section has a withdrawal resistance of at least 5 mm _H2O . The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the upstream section has a withdrawal resistance of 5 mm H ₂ O to 80 mm H ₂ O. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the upstream section comprises a plug comprising cellulose acetate. 6. The aerosol-generating article of claim 5, wherein the plug comprises cellulose acetate abutting an upstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the upstream section has a length of 1 mm to 15 mm. The aerosol-generating article according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the total withdrawal resistance of the aerosol-generating article is 1 mmH ₂ O to 25 mm H ₂ O. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the downstream section comprises an unobstructed airflow path from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate to the downstream end of the downstream section. 10. The aerosol-generating article of claim 9, wherein the unobstructed airflow path from the downstream end of the aerosol-generating substrate to the downstream end of the downstream section has a minimum diameter of 3 millimeters. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the downstream section comprises a hollow tubular element. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the downstream section has a length of at least 15 millimeters. An aerosol-generating article according to any preceding claim, wherein the downstream section comprises a first ventilation zone for providing ventilation into the downstream section. 14. The aerosol-generating article of claim 13, wherein the first ventilation zone includes a first row of perforations surrounding the downstream section. An aerosol generation system,
an aerosol generator equipped with a heater;
An aerosol generation system comprising the aerosol generation article according to any one of claims 1 to 14.

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